Selenium: The Essential Trace Mineral for Health and Cancer Prevention
Selenium is a vital trace mineral and one of the most misunderstood yet essential minerals for human health.
Dr. Olree's* work, specifically his book "Minerals for the Genetic Code", explores the connection between minerals, genetics, and health, including the role of selenium.
"Your cells cannot defend, detoxify, or regenerate without selenium. The Genetic Code Depends on Selenium"
Dr. Olree says that selenium is written into your DNA—literally. It is one of the few minerals that has a codon in the genetic code, meaning your body has been hardwired to require it for critical functions like:
- Glutathione production (master antioxidant)
- Thyroid hormone activation
- Immune system regulation
- Viral suppression
This isn’t just theory. As Dr. Olree puts it: “If you don’t have selenium, you don’t have the brake pedal for viral replication.”
Although required in small amounts, it is essential for numerous physiological functions. Selenium is best known for its antioxidant properties, immune system support, and contribution to thyroid hormone metabolism. Research over the past decades has also investigated selenium’s potential role in reducing cancer risk.
Why Selenium Matters
Selenium acts as a component of selenoproteins—enzymes that protect cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. Oxidative stress occurs when harmful free radicals damage cellular structures, a process linked to aging and chronic diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular disease. Selenium also supports DNA repair mechanisms and enhances immune function, both important for preventing disease.
However, both selenium deficiency and excessive intake can cause health issues. The body requires a balance: too little may impair immunity and increase susceptibility to illness, while too much can be toxic.
Top 5 Selenium-Rich Foods
Brazil nuts — The richest natural source of selenium. Just 1–2 nuts can meet or exceed the daily requirement.
Yellowfin tuna — Provides about 90 micrograms per 85-gram cooked portion.
Sardines — A nutrient-dense option, with around 45 micrograms per 85-gram serving.
Eggs — A large egg supplies approximately 15 micrograms.
Sunflower seeds — Contain around 19 micrograms per 30-gram serving (though not as dense as animal sources).
Other good sources include poultry, beef, shiitake mushrooms, and whole grains (depending on soil selenium levels where they’re grown - as they say "If it ain't in he soil it ain't in the food!")).
Selenium and Cancer: What the Research Shows
Several population studies and clinical trials have explored selenium’s role in cancer prevention. Much of the focus has been on its antioxidant activity and ability to regulate cell proliferation and apoptosis (programmed cell death).
Key findings from the literature:
Clark et al. (1996) reported in the Nutritional Prevention of Cancer Trial that selenium supplementation (200 µg/day as selenium-enriched yeast) was associated with significant reductions in the incidence of prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers in U.S. men with low baseline selenium levels. (JAMA, 276(24): 1957-1963)
A meta-analysis by Cai et al. (2016) published in Scientific Reports found that higher selenium status was inversely associated with the risk of certain cancers, including breast, lung, and prostate. (DOI: 10.1038/srep19213)
Selenium’s anti-cancer properties seem most pronounced in populations with low selenium status, and benefits may depend on the form of selenium, dosage, and individual baseline levels.
Selenium is a small but mighty mineral. Ensuring adequate intake through a balanced diet—including selenium-rich foods like Brazil nuts, fish, and eggs—can support antioxidant defences and immune health.
If your diet is rich in selenium you have no need for supplementation.
Quality Matters If You Choose Supplementation
According to Dr. Olree, not all selenium is created equal. He highlights the critical differences between organic vs. inorganic forms and warns against overloading the body with synthetic or misprocessed versions.
His recommendation:
Use plant-based, organically bound selenium like what’s found in Global Healing’s formula
Avoid fillers, binders, and toxic excipients (which neutralise selenium’s effect)
Explore Global Healing Selenium
References:
Clark LC, et al. (1996). Effects of selenium supplementation for cancer prevention in patients with carcinoma of the skin. JAMA, 276(24): 1957-1963.
Cai X, et al. (2016). Selenium exposure and cancer risk: an updated meta-analysis and meta-regression. Sci Rep, 6:19213. doi:10.1038/srep19213
Murdolo G, Bartolini D, Tortoioli C, Piroddi M, Torquato P, Galli F. Selenium and Cancer Stem Cells. Adv Cancer Res. 2017;136:235-257. doi: 10.1016/bs.acr.2017.07.006. Epub 2017 Oct 12. PMID: 29054420.
Rayman MP. Selenium and human health. Lancet. 2012 Mar 31;379(9822):1256-68. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(11)61452-9. Epub 2012 Feb 29. PMID: 22381456.
* Dr. Richard Olree is a chiropractor and mineral researcher based in Hillman, Michigan, known for his work on the relationship between trace minerals and genetic expression. He graduated from Logan College of Chiropractic in 1981 with a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology and a Doctorate in Chiropractic .
Dr. Olree has practiced chiropractic care in northern Michigan for over four decades and is a member of the Michigan Association of Chiropractors . He also owns Hillman Health Foods, a health food store that provides nutritional counselling and hair mineral analysis services .
His research focuses on the role of minerals in genetic processes. He developed the “Olree Standard Genetic Chart,” which maps trace minerals to the 64 codons of the genetic code, proposing that each codon requires a specific mineral for proper function .
Dr. Olree has authored several books, including:
- Minerals for the Genetic Code
- Minerals and Cerebral Spinal Fluids
- Amishman’s Handy Guide to Minerals, Vitamins and Food Supplements .
In his work, Dr. Olree emphasises the importance of minerals like selenium and iodine in health, suggesting that selenium acts as a trigger for tumor-suppressing genes . He also provides soil analysis and remediation services for Amish farmers in Michigan .
Dr. Olree continues to contribute to the field of mineral-based health solutions through his practice, research, and publications.
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, nor do I claim to be one. I cannot treat, cure, prevent, or diagnose any illness. If you have concerns about any sickness, talk to your health practitioner. Do your own research on natural remedies to ensure that you think they are safe. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a qualified specialist before taking any herb or supplement.