Antioxidant supplements (Vitamin A, C, E, and selenium) protect cells by neutralizing free radicals, atomic fragments that cause cellular destruction and produce metabolic waste.

Selenium is an essential trace element, necessary for growth and protein synthesis. It helps to increase the effectiveness of vitamin E, another key antioxidant (see Tip 31).  Selenium may help to prevent cardiovascular diseases by increasing levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL), lowering levels of “bad” cholesterol (LDL), and decreasing the “stickiness” of blood to reduce the risk of blood clots in arteries supplying the heart and brain.   Selenium has been shown to offer protection against a number of different types of cancer.   Results of two 5-year-long studies at Cornell University and the University of Arizona revealed that daily supplemental selenium cut the incidence of prostate cancer by 63%, colorectal tumors by 58%, and lung cancer by 46%.  In these studies, all tolled the  death rate from cancer of people who took supplemental selenium was found to be 39% lower than that of the general population. 

Therapeutic Daily Dosing:  100-200mcg. The maximum safe level is 200mcg for long-term usage and 700mcg for short-term usage. Supplementation at levels greater than 800 mcg a day may be toxic.

Visit The World Health Network, http://www.worldhealth.net, the official educational website of the A4M, to learn the latest on anti-aging therapeutics that may extend and enhance your healthy lifespan.