Selenium with Zinc and Vitamins A, C & E

Antioxidant formulations have become more popular over the last twenty years. Instead of people taking several different antioxidants tablets each with different properties, many manufacturers have made these formulations as a handy one-in-all pill. Selenium, Beta Carotene (pro-vitamin A), C, E and Zinc, amongst other substances, are often described as powerful antioxidants and this particular combination of vitamins and minerals is without doubt the most popular of all antioxidant formulations.
It has, within the last twenty years, become more apparent that these nutrients make a significant contribution to health because they have the ability to defend the body from free radical attack. Free radicals can be defined as unstable atoms, ions or molecules and are generated in many ways, from normal biochemical pathways such as respiration, to such external sources as cigarette smoke, exhaust fumes, UV light, drugs and alcohol. Free radicals are also produced by the body to protect it from invading bacteria. If free radicals are over produced in the body, they can damage the body’s tissues and blood vessels, degrade collagen (required for healthy ligaments, tendons, cartilages and spinal discs) and damage joints by attacking the synovial fluid (lubricant). The damage caused by free radical attack can result in many of the most life threatening diseases of mankind as well as other conditions that lead to a poor quality of life.

The Benefits of Selenium with Zinc and Vitamins A, C & E

Antioxidants – all these nutrients work in many different ways to ensure that free radicals are not allowed to damage the body’s tissues and blood vessels.

Infertility – recent studies published in the British Medical Journal have indicated that selenium levels may have fallen, in soil and subsequently in the body, so low as to impair our health, and this is also being linked to falling sperm counts amongst adult males.

Growth – Vitamin A/Beta Carotene are important in the promotion of growth, strong bones, healthy teeth, skin, hair and gums. They also counteract night blindness, weak eyesight, and help build resistance to respiratory infections.

Infection – Vitamin C has been shown to be important for fighting infection, promoting healthy teeth and gums, aiding iron in preventing anaemia and strengthening blood capillaries.

Circulation and Heart Disease – Vitamin E has been shown to be important in the maintenance of blood circulation, healing and the prevention of blood clots. Recent studies have also indicated that Vitamin E may be important in lowering the risk of heart disease. Vitamin B6 is important for preventing the build up of homocysteine, which is undesirable because it leads to an increased risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis.

Prostate Enlargement – Zinc can reduce enlarged prostate and alleviate adverse symptoms an generally help to alleviate pain and swelling.

Properties

Selenium – part of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase, is an antioxidant that protects the body by defending the damaging effects of free radicals and reduces the harmful oxidation of fats in the blood, and in doing so may help to maintain a healthy heart and circulation. It is also part of the enzyme iodothyronine deiodinase, which converts the thyroid hormone to its active form.

Vitamin A/ Beta Carotene – Beta carotene scavenges free radicals and can also ‘quench’ oxygen radicals. One molecule of beta carotene can quench up to a thousand oxygen radicals.

Vitamin B6 – methionine is converted to homocysteine in the body and back to methionine by a process that is stopped by B6 deficiency. To prevent homocysteine build up, which is undesirable, it is essential therefore that sufficient B6 is present when methionine is ingested. Vitamin B6 is also important for the absorption of zinc.

Vitamin C – transforms the radical form of Vitamin E back into the protective form, demonstrating the need for both vitamins. Also important in collagen formation and iron absorption.

Vitamin E – concentrates in cell membranes and attaches itself to lipid peroxy radicals, thus becoming a radical itself and requiring vitamin C to convert back. Vitamin E can also scavenge free radicals before they hit cell membranes. Also important in cell respiration, reproduction and enhancing vitamin A activity.

Zinc – is involved in stabilising membrane structures and in protection at the cellular level by preventing lipid peroxidation and reducing free radical formation. Also important in cell division, growth and reproduction and the removal of toxic metals.

Copper – is important in many processes including the conversion of tyrosine into pigment which colours hair, helps the body oxidise vitamin C, helps build nerves fibres, and is also involved in protein metabolism. It is also important for iron absorption, and is added to prevent copper deficiency due to the presence of zinc.

Contra-indications/Precautions

Selenium is toxic in high doses, and no more than 200µg per day should be taken.

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