Selenium - the new fighter against skin aging?

When I was asked to write an article about selenium as the new anti-aging fighter, at first I was sceptical. I have never heard of that mineral before, to be honest, especially in the context of anti-aging. But, after I did some research, I was pretty impressed!

We already know that to preserve the health and youthfulness of our skin, we must protect it from the sun, regularly cleanse and moisturize it, eat healthy and not smoke. We also know that another great way to keep your skin healthy is to include more vitamins and minerals into our diet, which act as natural antioxidans in the fight against free radicals.

Some of the most important nutrients in the fight against aging, sun damage and skin cancer are vitamins C, E and the mineral selenium. Research has found that they may actually reverse some of the discoloration and wrinkles associated with aging by speeding up the skin´s natural repair systems and inhibiting further damage. Wait, selenium? Really? Let´s research some more.

"Selenium is a mineral found in the soil. Selenium naturally appears in water and some foods. While people only need a very small amount, selenium plays a key role in the metabolism. Selenium has attracted attention because of its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants protect cells from damage. " writes WebMD.

„Selenium is necesarry to the antioxidant glutathione peroxidase, which helps protect the body from cancer, including skin cancer caused by sun exposure.“ writes Supplement Quality. Selenium preserves skin elasticity, and slows down aging of tissue through oxidation.

The best dietary sources of selenium include whole grain cereals, seafood, garlic and eggs.

When taken orally, in daily supplements of 50 to 200 mg, selenium has been shown to offer protection from damaging sunrays. The research has also shown that selenium applied topically in the form of Lselenomethionine, offers protection against both daily and excessive UV damage.

But, did you know that other than food and supplements, another great source of selenium is mineral water? Water rich in selenium can have healing, soothing and antioxidant properties through drinking or applying directly to the skin. It has been used for many centuries to help soothe and cure burns and inflammatory skin diseases, such as psoriasis and eczema. There was a famous selenium-rich spa in France where the troops of Napoleon Bonaparte were sent for treatment of burns many years ago.

Quite interesting! You don´t have to go to spa nowadays to enjoy the benefits of selenium. You can have it in your home in a form of a facial spray.

For more information visit: www.royalcanadianlaboratories.com