Selenium, an essential element for the human body, eat more than 4 kinds of food appropriately, and

Mondo Health Updated on 2024-02-23

The Selenium and Cancer Relationship: Truth and Misconception

Selenium is not a miracle "anti-cancer element" that does not directly kill cancer cells. However, the antioxidant effects of selenium in the body help protect cells from free radical damage, which may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.

But that doesn't mean that a high intake of selenium can prevent or ** cancer. In fact, excessive intake of selenium can lead to selenium poisoning, which can be harmful to health. Therefore, we should look at the relationship between selenium and cancer rationally and not blindly believe some exaggerated propaganda. The right thing to do is to eat a balanced diet to get the right amount of selenium, while paying attention to the intake of other nutrients, to maintain the overall health of the body. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that the human body is an organic whole, and the various organs are interdependent and mutually restrictive. The occurrence and progression of cancer is often related to a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, lifestyle, etc.

Therefore, it is not realistic to rely on a single element or drug to prevent or ** cancer. Traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes "curing diseases before they occur", that is, maintaining good health and preventing diseases by adjusting diet, daily life, and emotions. In this process, a proper intake of selenium-rich foods is undoubtedly beneficial, but it cannot be regarded as a panacea "anti-cancer miracle drug". In order to understand the relationship between selenium and cancer more scientifically, we can refer to some authoritative research results. For example, a study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the United States found that lower levels of selenium in soil and food were associated with higher rates of certain cancers in certain areas. However, this does not mean that increasing selenium intake will directly prevent these cancers. Another large randomized controlled trial (SELECT) of selenium supplementation found that long-term use of selenium supplements did not significantly reduce the risk of prostate cancer. These findings remind us that the relationship between selenium and cancer is not simply causal, but is influenced by a variety of factors. Selenium-rich foods: choosing and pairing

In order to meet the body's need for selenium, we can eat more of the following four selenium-rich foods: animal offal, seafood, mushrooms and eggs. These foods are not only rich in selenium, but also contain a variety of other nutrients that help maintain good health. When it comes to choosing and pairing these foods, we can adapt them to our tastes and eating habits.

Specifically, animal offal such as pork liver and chicken liver have a high selenium content, but because the cholesterol content is also relatively high, it is recommended to eat it in moderation. Seafood such as kelp and seaweed are rich in selenium and iodine, which helps to maintain the normal function of the thyroid gland. Shiitake mushrooms, oyster mushrooms and other mushroom foods are not only rich in selenium, but also contain a variety of vitamins and minerals, which have the effect of enhancing immunity. Eggs such as eggs and duck eggs also contain high selenium content and are easy to digest and absorb. When pairing these foods, we can try to combine different kinds of foods to make delicious and delicious dishes.

For example, pork liver can be stir-fried with spinach, which not only increases the taste and nutritional value of the dish, but also achieves the purpose of selenium supplementation. How to supplement selenium scientifically: the principle of individualization and appropriate amount

Selenium supplementation is not always better, but it is necessary to develop a suitable selenium supplementation plan according to the individual's physical condition and dietary habits. In general, the body's need for selenium can be met through daily diet. However, for some special groups, such as the elderly, pregnant women, and patients with chronic diseases, it may be necessary to supplement selenium appropriately under the guidance of a doctor. In addition, due to the differences in the amount of selenium in soil and food in different regions, it is recommended to make appropriate adjustments according to local conditions. To get a more accurate picture of an individual's selenium needs, we can refer to some authoritative Recommended Nutritional Intakes (RNI) or Optimal Intakes (AI). For example, the Dietary Reference Intakes for Chinese Residents (2023 Edition) recommends that adults consume 60 micrograms of selenium per day.

For special populations, such as the elderly, pregnant women, etc., the demand may vary. Therefore, it is best to consult a professional doctor or dietitian when developing a selenium supplementation plan.

In addition, we can also understand the status of selenium in an individual's body by measuring the concentration of selenium in the blood, so that we can adjust the selenium supplementation strategy more precisely. Note the synergistic effect of selenium with other nutrients: the ** partner of vitamin E and selenium

While supplementing with selenium, do not neglect the intake of other nutrients. Vitamin E, in particular, has a synergistic effect with selenium to work together to resist the damage caused by oxidative stress. Therefore, while supplementing with selenium, you can also appropriately increase the intake of foods rich in vitamin E, such as nuts and vegetable oils.

In addition, trace elements such as zinc and copper are also closely related to the metabolism of selenium, so it is also necessary to pay attention to the balanced intake of these elements in the daily diet.

Studies have shown that vitamin E has a synergistic effect with selenium in antioxidant aspects. When both are ingested at the same time, they can more effectively remove free radicals and peroxides from the body, thus protecting cells from damage.

In addition, trace elements such as zinc and copper are also involved in the metabolic process of selenium.

Zinc promotes the absorption and utilization of selenium, while copper works in conjunction with selenium in the antioxidant enzyme system.

Therefore, while supplementing with selenium, it is also necessary to pay attention to the intake of these related nutrients. To make it easier to get these nutrients, we can choose some multivitamin and mineral multivitamin and mineral multinutrient supplements to supplement in moderation.

However, it is important to note that any nutrient supplementation should be done under the guidance of a doctor or dietitian to ensure that it is safe and effective. Healthy eating plan for the New Year

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