by Kirk Patrick
(Health Secrets) While high levels of mercury are often found in large species of fish, a more important factor to consider is the relative amount of selenium the fish contains. Selenium, also abundant in seafood, actually helps remove mercury from the body. Thus, consuming certain types of seafood (and other foods) that have a high selenium to mercury ratio can purify the body of heavy metals even when the fish contains them.
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What is Selenium?
Selenium is an essential trace mineral that functions as an antioxidant and promotes a healthy immune system. Selenium is required in remarkably small amounts, with recommended daily amounts measured in the millionths of a gram (micrograms). Selenium has strong anti-cancer effects and is known to help detoxify the body and remove heavy metals, including mercury.
In the early 1970′s it was discovered that selenium is incorporated into proteins to produce selenoproteins, important enzymes that are antioxidants (they destroy free radicals and prevent cellular damage). Selenoproteins boost the immune system and help regulate thyroid function.
How Much Selenium is Required?
The average person gets about 65 micrograms of selenium per day. 200 micrograms is considered the optimal amount while 400 micrograms is the maximum allowable daily dose. Note that too much selenium is highly toxic to the body.
*Symptoms of too little Selenium: