On June 21, 1999, the possibility of counter-interactions between inorganic selenium and vitamin C absorption was raised in the Danish television news. Two days later, in the Berlingske Tidende newspaper, similar reports were published about Vitamin C inhibiting the absorption of inorganic selenium in the body. The problem arises when selenium interacts with ascorbic acid; it can be reduced to elementary selenium, which the body cannot utilize. This has been shown in studies. However, the issue becomes more complex when the human element is added to the equation, and, to date, there is a considerable lack of scientific literature on the subject.
It is advisable to take Multi-tabs at meal times so that the various vitamins and minerals - including selenium - are made an integral part of and spread within the food intake. Multi-tabs contain 50 micrograms of selenium in atrium selenium and between 60 and 90 mg of ascorbic acid. This will, therefore, lower the local concentrations of Vitamin C and selenium and lessen the chances of them inter-reacting. Furthermore, selenium creates protective complexes with food components, such as amino acids such as methionine and cysteine. These are important factors for vitamin C absorption.
Studies have shown that 200 mg of ascorbic acid does not affect atrium selenium (50g). On the other hand, it even appears to improve the bio-accessibility of selenium when ingested at meal times. There is no evidence that food factors have any influence on selenium absorption, an issue that should be looked into in further studies. However, when a large dose of ascorbic acid (1g) is taken together with selenium before a meal, then the selenium is not absorbed. The crucial difference lies in taking them at meal times, as the ascorbic acid will not affect the absorption of selenium.
On the topic of selenium absorption, it also appears that the nature of selenium itself makes a difference. Several studies have shown that the body can almost totally absorb organic selenium, whereas the inorganic one is variable, generally over 50%. Organic selenium is incorporated in amino acids such as methionine (Selena-methionine) or cysteine (Selena-cysteine). The body thus recognizes selenium as an amino acid. Since the body almost totally absorbs amino acids, the organic selenium is also absorbed in a camouflaged fashion. It is important to be aware of this since otherwise, an inadvertent over-dosage of selenium could occur.
Based on the above, there are two main points about the selenium absorption issue:
The topics of proper supplementation and vitamin C absorption are complex due to the chemical complexity of nutritional supplements and the physiological complexity of the body’s uptake and absorption of nutrients. Humans have not had the opportunity to enhance their nutrition with supplements for a long time, so nutritional supplementation remains an evolving science. What is known, however, is that supplementation is important to achieving the optimal level of health and that the highest level of vitamin C absorption, as well as other vitamins and nutrients, is essential to healthy living. .
The modern world presents challenges and stressors unfamiliar to our ancestors, and our bodies’ neuroendometabolic (NEM) stress response systems are not well equipped to deal with these new and different stressors. As a result, we must be attentive to our lifestyle and nutritional choices to achieve optimal function and health for our bodies. Make sure you research and learn how to properly achieve the right nutritional balance with diet and supplementation for your body.
Understanding the latest research on vitamin C absorption and selenium use can greatly impact your overall health. Vitamin C is vital for immune support, enhances iron absorption, and contributes to skin health. Recent studies suggest optimizing vitamin C intake can improve its bioavailability, ensuring your body gets the most benefit. Selenium, on the other hand, plays a crucial role in antioxidant defense and thyroid function. Adequate selenium levels are linked to reduced inflammation and improved immune response, making it an essential nutrient for optimal health.
Are you curious how the latest findings on vitamin C absorption and selenium use can benefit your health? Call us at +1 (626) 571-1234 for a free initial consultation. Take the first step towards enhanced well-being today!
