LUMITEEK Cellular Health! Selenium

Selenium is an essential trace element that plays an important role in the human body.

The primary function of selenium within the body is to act as an antioxidant and facilitate the metabolism of thyroid hormones. Humans are incapable of synthesising selenium themselves, meaning this vital element must be obtained via nutrition.

Examples of selenium sources include:

• Nuts and seeds
• Animal liver
• Seafood

Within the human body, selenium is mostly concentrated within the liver, kidneys, sperm, and muscles.

There is a well-established link between oxidative stress and skin disorders, as well as premature ageing of skin and hair.

Selenium helps protect cells from oxidative stress and helps keep hair and nails healthy.
Through its antioxidant properties, selenium helps to alleviate inflammation associated with ageing processes (#inflammaging), reduces DNA damage, and lengthens telomeres (oxidative stress accelerates telomere abrasion, leading to telomere shortening, the main cause of skin ageing). By doing all this, selenium plays a major role in combating premature ageing and preventing age-related diseases. Increased oxidative stress also plays a central role in the gradual loss of pigmentation in the hair, making it turn grey.

Potential UV-protective properties of selenium have been investigated, with research suggesting that oral supplements of the element could act as an adjuvant (a substance which increases the efficacy of another) for sunscreens. Oral antioxidants have been posited as an effective aid in combating both short and long-term UV-induced oxidative damage.

The antioxidant effect of selenium is expressed through enzymes containing the element. These enzymes protect the body from particles that cause oxidative stress, often referred to as free radicals. An abundance of free radicals in the body weakens the immune system and causes premature ageing. Levels of selenium within humans has been shown to directly correlate with lower occurrence rates and severity of viral infections.
In 1996, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that selenium protects us from many dangerous diseases and cell ageing, whilst also being responsible for the proper functioning of several processes throughout the body. Selenium is considered a vital trace element for body repair, restoring strength and prolonging life.

Micronutrients and antioxidants from food and supplements are a good preventative strategy for delaying the onset of premature hair greying, as well as skin damage such as fine lines, wrinkles, skin dullness, uneven skin tone, dry skin, age spots, rough skin texture, and visible pores.

Additionally, selenium contributes to the regular functioning of the thyroid gland, immune system and spermatogenesis (sperm production).

Recent studies have shown that a selenium deficiency can worsen atopic dermatitis.

USAGE: Take one capsule per day with food. Consult a doctor before taking supplements if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication.
Do not exceed the recommended dose. We recommend using selenium supplements as a course and once per year. Do not use food supplements as a substitute for a varied diet. It is important to have a varied and balanced diet and practice a healthy lifestyle. Keep supplements out of reach of children.

STORAGE: Store the product in a dry place below 22°C, and shield from direct sunlight.

References:

1.Zhonglin, C., Jianzhong, Z. & Hongjun, L. (2018) Selenium, aging and aging-related diseases. Aging Clinical and Experimental Research, Vol 31, (1035–1047).
2.Martinez, S. S., Huang, Y., Acuna, L., Laverde, E., Trujillo, D., Barbieri, M. A., Tamargo, J., Campa, A., & Baum, M. K. (2021). Role of Selenium in Viral Infections with a Major Focus on SARS-CoV-2. International journal of molecular sciences, 23(1), 280.
3.Pincemail, J., Smail, M. (2022) On the Potential Role of the Antioxidant Couple Vitamin E/Selenium Taken by the Oral Route in Skin and Hair Health. Antioxidants 2022, 11(11), (2270).
4.Ecosh.ee, Selene.