When to Supplement Fight disease

Selenium is a trace element required by every body cell. It is vital in disease prevention because it helps antioxidant enzymes to function. Selenium also protects against heart attack and stroke, cataracts and macular degeneration. Taking it with vitamin E may increase its antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties. Food sources include Brazil nuts, seafood, meat and poultry, cottage cheese and eggs, oats and brown rice. Vegetarians especially may benefit from a supplement of 200–400 mcg daily combined with 400 iu vitamin E (do not take more than the recommended dose).