Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet Importance of Selenium For Good Thyroid Health.
Selenium is an essential trace mineral that is found naturally in the soil. Crops harvested where there is high levels of the mineral will absorb it and consequently the mineral will become part of our diet. The biggest source of selenium is the brazil nut but it is also found in meats, fish and sea vegetables.
Scientific studies suggest the having selenium in our diet and supplements may reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer. The Office of Dietary Supplements states that as little as 200 mcg can do the trick. As an antioxidant, selenium works protecting the cells from the damaging free radicals. Some of the cancers said to be affected by the consumption of selenium are thyroid, lung, colorectal and prostate.
Not only do the studies suggest reduction in the risk of thyroid cancer but it appears when the body is lacking the mineral other conditions may occur with the thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism may become a problem. The condition occurs when the thyroid gland is under active and does not produce adequate thyroid hormones. The vital thyroid hormone, triiodothyronine (T3) converted from thyroxine (T4), working together with other hormones regulate the health of our cells, growth and metabolism. When food containing selenium is consumed, the mineral combines with proteins forming selenoproteins. These selenoproteins assist to regulate the thyroid gland's function, protecting the cells from the hydrogen peroxide that is produced naturally by the thyroid gland in the production of the thyroid hormones. But if the gland produces to much hydrogen peroxide and there is a deficiency of selenium the selenoproteins cannot protect the thyroid cells from damage.
Along with selenium an other essential mineral, iodine, is needed for the thyroid gland's good health. Goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid gland can result if there is not a balance of these two minerals. A lack of iodine will cause the gland to become enlarged in the glands attempt to increase hormone production. Studies on experimental animals have shown that a deficiency of selenium causes the weight of the thyroid to increase also. In many African countries, where there is a deficiency of both iodine and selenium, the cases of people suffering with goiter as well as hypothyroidism.
Hashimoto's disease, an autoimmune thyroid disorder, is another condition that may result from a deficiency of this essential trace mineral. These patients though are often told not to take iodine supplementation because it is felt that iodine may cause and increase in oxidative damage to the gland. As an antioxidant, selenium will protect the gland from this damage.
A balance of all minerals not only selenium and iodine is a must for good health in general. Supplementation of selenium for good thyroid health should be discussed with your doctor.
hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.