What conditions or problems is Selenium used for ?

Selenium may be used to help prevent or treat many types of cancers, including colon, lung, and prostate cancers. Selenium has also been used to help lower cholesterol levels, slow or prevent the progression of HIV, and ease inflammatory symptoms of arthritis. Selenium may be used to strengthen the immune system against infection, help treat sterility, and improve functioning of the liver, pancreas, and thyroid gland.

There are three specific diseases associated with selenium deficiency: Keshan Disease, which causes an enlarged heart and poor heart function in children; Kashin-Beck Disease, which causes osteoarthropathy; and Myxedematous Endemic Cretinism, which results in mental retardation. It is highly recommended that children and pregnant women get adequate amounts of selenium in their diets.












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