Selenium
This treatment modality is thought to promote wellness and optimize overall health. Selenium therapy should be used with, not in place of, standard cancer therapy.
What does selenium therapy involve?
Selenium is an essential trace mineral that is though to be a powerful antioxidant, protecting tissues from the damaging effects of oxygen free radicals. The daily recommended intake of selenium is 50 to 140 micrograms, taken in yeast tablets, maltcakes or other supplements.
How is selenium thought to promote wellness and optimize overall health?
Selenium may play a role in the prevention of cancer by binding with glutathione peroxidase to inhibit destruction caused by free radicals and by protecting cellular membranes.
What has been proven about the benefit of selenium?
Epidemiological studies have suggested that selenium consumption is inversely correlated with breast, lung, oral and esophageal cancers. The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center conducted an extensive human studies literature review of selenium and found eight studies applicable to humans and cancer. After analyzing the various studies, researchers concluded that selenium might play a role in reducing the risk of cancer. Selenium may be ingested for its health promoting effects but should not be thought of as a curative therapy.
What is the potential risk or harm associated with selenium?
Side effects are rare at low doses of selenium but do include vomiting and diarrhea. At high doses, selenium is extremely toxic. Symptoms of selenium overdose include severe irritation of the respiratory system, rhinitis, lung edema, broncho-pneumonia and metallic taste in the mouth.
How much does selenium cost?
Selenium supplements can be purchased at health food stores and pharmacies. One hundred capsules cost approximately $100.
For additional information:
University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Complementary/Integrative Medicine Education Resources
1515 Holcombe Boulevard
Houston, TX 77030
Telephone: (800) 392-1611
Web site: http://www.mdanderson.org/departments/cimer/
Note: Information about therapies is intended to help you make informed choices, not to endorse any particular therapy. The information is courtesy of "Integrating Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Cancer Patients," a handbook written as an independent study project by Heather Morein. For more information, see the full text of the handbook (PDF), including all references and appendices.
Note: Information about therapies is intended to help you make informed choices, not to endorse any particular therapy. The information is courtesy of "Integrating Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Cancer Patients," a handbook written as an independent study project by Heather Morein. For more information, see the full text of the handbook (PDF), including all references and appendices.