Selenium Deficiency Powers Viruses

Mineral Deficiency Powers Viruses
Scientists* have made the amazing discovery that normally harmless viruses can become heart-damaging killers if there is a selenium deficiency. They speculate that "....increased oxidative stress in the 'animals tested] may have caused oxidative damage to the virus' 'genes,] making the virus more virulent.

"....new strains of flu viruses 'also] arise each year because the genes tend to shuffle places, and.... many] are highly susceptible to mutation." That is, to change to a more dangerous type.

In looking for a solution to protect the body from these occurrences, they discovered that selenium adequacy is a prime tool for defense.

DETAILS: Selenium is a TRACE mineral, subject to over-ingestion. 75 micrograms is the recommended daily intake. We would avoid taking in more than 200 micrograms including any in your multiple vitamin tablet. Broccoli is also rich in selenium. If you eat it and take a multiple, a selenium supplement (available in 50 microgram doses,) should be broken in half and only this much eaten.

*Melinda A. Beck, a virologist at U. of N. Carolina did the original work, Orville A. Levander and Allen D. Smith of the USDA-ARS Nutrient Requirements: Lab., 10300 Baltimore Ave., Bldg. 307, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350 adding to it.