Selenium and Zinc to Fight Toxins

We are constantly exposed to environmental toxins, such as air pollution and radiation. We can try to avoid these toxins in the environment , but it is impossible to avoid it totally. The increase of these toxins requires the requirement of selenium. Many of the benefits of selenium are related to its role in the production of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase. This enzyme is responsible for detoxification in the body and each molecule of this enzyme contains 4 atoms of selenium. Selenium supplementation has been found to protect the liver in people with alcoholic cirrhosis. However, selenium from food sources is the safest and the best utilized by our body. Increase your intake of brazil nuts, broccoli, brown rice, chicken, dairy products, garlic, onions, molasses, seafood, vegetables and whole grains.

Another mineral you need to include in your diet is zinc. Zinc has important antioxidant properties which can help neutralize free radicals and prevent the damage they cause. Zinc is a constituent of the important antioxidant enzyme Superoxide Dismutase. Zinc is needed for the proper absorption of Vitamin E (yet another important antioxidant). Food sources include: egg yolks, fish, lamb, legumes, mushrooms, pecans, oysters, poultry, soybeans, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, parsley, and kelp.