Selenium, or selen, is a powerful trace mineral known for its anti-cancer properties and ability to inhibit the growth of malignant cells. Dubbed the “King of Anti-Cancer” in the world of micronutrients, this mineral is essential for overall health, especially for the elderly, despite the body only requiring a small amount daily.
1. What is Selenium and Why is it Called the “King of Anti-Cancer”?
Selenium is an essential trace element that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. A prominent study in Qidong, China, found that reasonable selenium supplementation can reduce cancer mortality rates by up to 50% and lower the risk of liver cancer by 49%.
According to TS.DS Nguyen Trung Tuong (QTN Medical System), selenium protects the body through four important mechanisms:
- Immune Boosting: Selenium maintains the efficient activity of NK cells and T cells, the “vanguard” in detecting and destroying cancer cells.
- Superior Antioxidant: As an essential component of glutathione peroxidase and thioredoxin reductase, selenium helps neutralize free radicals and protects cells from damage.
- Inhibiting Metastasis: Selenium helps suppress the invasion and spread of tumors.
- Reducing Side Effects of Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy: Cancer patients supplemented with the right dose of selenium often show significant improvement in hair loss, nausea, and mouth ulcers.
Selenium, the “King of Anti-Cancer,” is an essential trace element that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions.
2. Selenium Deficiency: A Silent Enemy of the Elderly
In older adults, the ability to absorb selenium from food decreases over time. Additionally, chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s also deplete the body’s selenium reserves.
Selenium deficiency in the elderly can lead to:
- Immune system weakness, making them more susceptible to infections.
- Increased risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease.
- Dry skin, accelerated aging, and wrinkles.
- Memory decline and slower reflexes.
3. 8 Selenium-Rich Foods That Are Easy to Find and Should Be Eaten Daily
If you’ve never paid attention to selenium and its sources, you can start incorporating the following foods into your diet today:
3.1 Animal Liver
Animal liver is a rich source of selenium, iron, and vitamin A, benefiting eyesight, preventing anemia, and boosting immunity.
3.2 Seafood
Oysters, tuna, mackerel, shrimp, and seaweed are extremely high in selenium. Oysters, in particular, are known as the “natural bank of selenium.”
3.3 Free-Range Chicken Eggs
Each egg contains approximately 15 mcg of easily absorbable selenium, making them ideal for both the elderly and children.
3.4 Mushrooms
In addition to selenium, mushrooms contain beta-glucan, which helps boost immunity and supports the immune system.
Mushrooms, rich in selenium, help boost immunity and support the immune system.
3.5 Asparagus
Asparagus is the vegetable with the highest selenium content and is also rich in folate, benefiting cardiovascular health.
3.6 Nuts: Brazil Nuts, Walnuts, and Sunflower Seeds
Notably, just one Brazil nut per day provides 100% of the recommended daily intake of selenium.
3.7 Whole Grains and Brown Rice
Whole grains and brown rice are excellent sources of fiber, vitamin B, and natural selenium, making them a healthy alternative to white rice in daily meals.
3.8 Spirulina
Spirulina contains not only the “King of Anti-Cancer” selenium but also protein and other micronutrients that help improve overall health.
4. Guide to Proper Selenium Supplementation for the Elderly
- Selenium Requirement: 60-200 mcg per day.
- Prioritize Natural Sources: Selenium from food is absorbed much better than supplements.
- Consult a Doctor: If considering selenium-containing supplements, seek thorough medical advice.
- Avoid Overdose: Excess selenium can lead to poisoning, digestive disorders, and hair loss.
While selenium, the “King of Anti-Cancer,” is just a tiny micronutrient, it plays a crucial role in increasing longevity, preventing diseases, and maintaining mental acuity. For the elderly, daily selenium supplementation through natural food sources is a simple yet essential act.
