Colon cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that the prevalence of colon cancer is increasing drastically.

Although colon cancer can be treated, it is better to protect ourselves against it from the onset. One of the ways that have been found to protect us against colon cancer is Selenium.

What is selenium?

Selenium is a mineral that is found in almost all living organisms. It is an essential nutrient that is required in small amounts for our body to function effectively. Selenium is found naturally in soil, water, and some foods.

However, the amount of selenium in these sources fluctuates depending on where they are from. This means that not all sources of selenium are equal.

The Protective Effects of Selenium against Colon Cancer

Studies have shown that Selenium plays a significant role in protecting our bodies against colon cancer. It does this by working in two ways:.

1. Selenium Prevents DNA Damage

Selenium has been found to prevent DNA damage. DNA damage is a significant contributor to the development of colon cancer. By preventing DNA damage in our bodies, selenium helps to reduce the risk of colon cancer development.

Selenium does this by activating an enzyme that causes cell death in cells that have damaged DNA. This process prevents the growth and spread of cancer cells.

2. Selenium Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation is another key contributor to the development of colon cancer. Selenium has been found to reduce inflammation in the body. This is essential, as it helps to prevent the formation of cancer cells.

By reducing inflammation, selenium helps to protect our bodies against colon cancer.

How to get Enough Selenium?

To get enough selenium, you need to eat a diet that is rich in selenium. The best sources of selenium are food sources. Foods like Brazil nuts, fish, and shellfish are excellent sources of selenium.

However, other factors can affect your selenium intake. These include the following:.

1. The soil where your food is grown

The amount of selenium in your food is directly related to the amount of selenium in the soil where your food is grown. If the soil is deficient in selenium, the food that grows in it will have low levels of selenium.

2. Your Age

Your age can also affect your selenium intake. As you age, your body’s ability to absorb selenium reduces. This means that older people need to eat more selenium-rich foods than younger people.

3. Your Location

The location where you live can also affect your selenium intake. People who live in areas with low soil selenium levels may be at risk of selenium deficiency.

The Recommended Daily Amount of Selenium

The recommended daily amount of selenium for adults is 55 micrograms (mcg). This is enough to prevent a selenium deficiency. However, to get the protective effects of selenium against colon cancer, you need to eat more than the recommended daily amount.

Conclusion

Research has shown that selenium plays a significant role in protecting our bodies against colon cancer. Selenium works by preventing DNA damage and reducing inflammation in the body.

To get enough selenium, you need to eat a diet that is rich in selenium. The best sources of selenium are food sources like Brazil nuts, fish, and shellfish. However, other factors can affect your selenium intake, including the soil where your food is grown, your age, and your location.