Oyster Nutrition: Selenium
It is almost May 2020 and the country is still on lock-down from the COVID-19 Corona-virus. Over one million cases in the United States and Governors are beginning to slowly re-open businesses. The world returning to normalcy is very much so welcomed yet dangerous. Keeping our immune systems in check is more important than ever and oysters can help you maintain healthy levels.
What is Selenium?
Selenium functions as a potent antioxidant. Selenium helps the body produce special proteins called antioxidant enzymes. These keep your white blood cells strong and fight off cell aging and damage such as a virus attaching like the corona-virus where it changes your cells. More selenium benefits:
Like all antioxidants selenium is an anti-inflammatory. Many diseases are a result of inflammation like the progression of diabetes, MS, ALS, etc.
Helps alleviate thyroid problems by converting the less active thyroid hormone into one our body can use.
Protects your heart by decreasing the risk of blood clotting, reducing your bad cholesterol levels and increasing your good cholesterol level. WOW!
Fights against free radical damage and cancer, as studies have shown that the amount of deaths due to cancer are less in those that have adequate levels of selenium.
Selenium also reduces dandruff and increases male fertility! Now these are great reasons as to why oysters are considered aphrodisiacs!!
Oysters are high in selenium and other pertinent nutrients to keep our immune systems strong. So pat yourself on the back the next dozen oysters your slurp down. Eat smart. #EatMoreOysters
Post 4 of 6 in the Oyster Nutrition Series
Sources: Understanding Food: Principles and Preparation, Amy Brown 2nd Edition; Macrobiotic Diet by Michio and Aveline Kushi; The Geography of Oysters: The Connoisseur’s Guide to Oyster Eating in North America by Rowen Jacobson; https://www.healthambition.com/health-benefits-of-selenium/
*Selenium alone will not prevent COVID-19. Consult a physician.