Swedish scientist-chemist Jöns Jacob Berzelius has opened selenium for mankind in 1817. He named his discovery by name of the Moon (from the Greek "Selene"), because this element was always found together with tellurium, which received its name in honor of the Earth. But vitally important for the human, selenium was avowed only in 1973.Selenium makes its invisible work in various parts of the human body. It is a component part of many proteins, enzymes and lipoproteins. It has a very strong anticarcinogenic effect. Moreover it is not only prevents, but also suspend the development of malignant tumors. It provides protection and mobility of spermatozoon, and this quality is widely used in the treatment of male infertility. It is necessary for the synthesis of thyroid gland’s hormones.
But most of all selenium is famous as the microelement of longevity. Because it not only protects cell membranes against damage by aggressive forms of oxygen, but also actively helps vitamin E, a strong antioxidant, to realize its antioxidant potential fully. In addition, recent researches have found that selenium can be our ecological defender. It turned out that it is able to protect our body from mercury, cadmium, lead, thallium and other harmful substances – satellites of modern civilization.
Recommendations of the American Scientists for average daily dose of selenium
Infants
From 0 to 6 months - 10 mikrogram/day
From 6 to 12 months - 15 mikrogram/day
Children
From 1 to 6 years - 20 mikrogram/day
From 7 to 10 years - 30 mikrogram/day
Boys
From 11 to 14 years - 40 mikrogram/day
Girls
From 11 to 14 years - 45 mikrogram/day
Men
From 15 to 18 years - 50 mikrogram/day
From 19 years and older - 70 mikrogram/day
Women
From 15 to 18 years - 50 mikrogram/day
From 19 years and older - 55 mikrogram/day
Pregnant - 65, max. 200
Breastfeeding - 75, max. 200