Selenium is a naturally occurring mineral found in soil and is a vital element that plays an important role in boosting the body’s immune system. This is done by combining different proteins in the body to form antioxidants that promote good health. Selenium deficiency can cause muscle weakness and fatigue. Adequate selenium intake helps prevent heart disease and the formation of antibodies, which may help people living with HIV/AIDS to reduce viral damage to the immune system. Among the most important health benefits that selenium provides to men are:
First: improve fertility
All cells contain selenium. The highest concentrations are found in the sexual glands and semen. Sperm are especially dependent on selenium, as this mineral is necessary for the function of healthy tail proteins, which allow sperm to swim forward. This is the reason why sexually active men need more selenium, since the ejaculation process consumes a large amount of selenium.
Selenium also contains antioxidants that aid in sperm formation and increases the movement of sperm, giving them the ability to swim and fertilize eggs more healthily. Therefore, adequate levels of selenium for men improve fertility. It also reduces conditions that cause breakage of the chromosomes responsible for the reproduction process, such as the X and Y chromosomes, thus reducing the chances of exposing children to birth defects or miscarriage.
Second: Reduce rates of prostate cancer and some other types of cancer
According to a study conducted by Cornell University in collaboration with the University of Arizona from 1983 to 1997, selenium helps reduce the risk of cancer. The study shows low incidence cases of prostate, esophageal, and colorectal cancer at 71, 67, 62, and 46 percent, respectively. Therefore, selenium’s ability to control cell damage that can cause cancer makes it useful in combating life-threatening male diseases such as prostate cancer.
Third: lower risk of heart disease
The risk of heart disease is increased by lifestyle changes that allow people to spend less time on energy-intensive physical activities such as sports. This increases the amount of fat on their bodies. Regulating selenium intake reduces the risk of heart disease by slowing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol and unnecessarily slowing blood clotting.
Fourth: purify the body
Selenium combines with toxic metals, such as mercury, found in shellfish, arsenic, and cadmium, and thus works to weaken the negative elements of toxins that can harm the body. The mineral is also combined with omega-3 fatty acids to help the body eliminate harmful fatty acids.
natural sources of selenium
Plant foods are the main dietary sources of selenium in most countries of the world, based on the amount of selenium present in the soil, which varies by region. Selenium can also be obtained from meat, shellfish, eggs, and dairy products. Some nuts are also very good sources of this vital mineral.