Why is selenium important in the body and why might it be used to treat cancer?
Selenium is an essential trace mineral that functions as an antioxidant nutrient, working primarily as a part of proteins—most notably, the enzyme glutathione peroxidase. Glutathione peroxidase and vitamin E work in tandem. Glutathione peroxidase prevents free-radical formation, thus blocking the damaging chain reaction before it begins; if free radicals do form, and a chain reaction starts, vitamin E halts it. Selenium-containing enzymes are necessary for the proper functioning of the iodine-containing thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism.
The question of whether selenium protects against the development of certain cancers, particularly prostate cancer, is under intense investigation. Adequate blood selenium seems protective against cancers of the prostate, colon, and other sites. Many questions remain unanswered regarding selenium status, intake, and cancer, however. For example, the range of selenium status and the levels of intakes most beneficial to reducing cancer risk have not been established. Given the potential for harm from excess selenium and the lack of conclusive evidence, recommending selenium supplements to prevent cancer would be premature.
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a. "Fast food is not as energy-dense as most food prepared in the home." b. "The body seems to store fat more readily in the body than it uses it for energy." c. "Increased portion sizes in the fast food industry have not resulted in patrons eating more." d. "Fast food is often high in protein which has more kcalories per gram than do carbohydrates or fat."
Accutane (an acne medication) is a derivative of vitamin
A. E. B. A. C. D. D. C.
While at a party, Jenna drank 24 ounces of beer and 10 ounces of wine. Based on this information, her alcohol consumption was equivalent to ________ standard alcoholic drinks.
A. 2 B. 4 C. 6 D. 8
Riboflavin forms active coenzymes that do all the following EXCEPT:
a. assist with energy production from carbohydrates, proteins and fats. b. function as electron carriers. c. participate in the citric acid cycle. d. relay signals between nerve cells.