photo credit: photographerpandora

 

People who follow a diet rich in the mineral Selenium, which is found naturally in Brazil nuts, cereals, meat and fish, could be less likely than others to experience severe influenze H1N1 (Swine Flu) symptoms. Studies suggest that viruses become more virulent in those who are selenium-deficient, causing more severe, longer-lasting symptoms (1).

 

Unfortunately, the UK’s Selenium intake has fallen well below the Government’s reference level of 75mcg/day for men and 60mcg/day for women. Average UK intakes are in the region of 34mcg/day (2). This raises fears that Britons are at increased risk of experiencing more severe influenza H1N1 (Swine Flu).

 

Medical nutritionist and independent advisor to Healthspan, Dr Sarah Brewer suggests that people can potentially reduce the severity of viral infections by increasing their intake of Selenium-rich foods or by taking a *Selenium supplement. If choosing a Selenium supplement Dr Sarah recommends finding a selenium yeast supplement which is widely regarded as the international gold standard quality due to its high bioavailability.

 

Dr Sarah Brewer comments: “I believe that the reason why the severity of Swine Flu infections in the US is reduced could be attributed to the fact that, as a nation, their Selenium intake levels are adequate. Lack of Selenium is now recognised as a ‘driving force’ for influenza virus mutations (3), which may explain why so many new, pathogenic influenza viruses emerge from Asia, where Selenium intakes are among the lowest in the world.”

 

Henrietta Norton, Healthspan’s senior nutritionist, said: “Selenium is often referred to as the ‘miracle mineral’ and although it’s only required in very small amounts, it’s vital to our health being essential for the body’s antioxidant enzyme defences. Of course, nothing will truly guarantee protection against a severe infection such as Swine Flu, however supplementing the diet with Selenium could enhance the body’s immune system, helping fight against infection as well as potentially reducing the severity of an infection.”

 

* Healthspan’s Selenium Yeast Tablets 200mcg with Vitamins A, C & E, offers a powerful antioxidant combination that can help the body combat the cell damaging effects of free radicals attributed to an influenza/flu infection.  These are available on www.healthspan.co.uk or by calling freephone 0800 73 123 77. They cost £5.45 for 180 tablets and £9.95 for 360.

 

References

(1) M.A. Beck et al. 2001. Selenium deficiency increases the pathology of an influenza virus infection, FASEB J. 15:1481–1483.; H.K. Nelson et al. 2001. Host nutritional selenium status as a driving force for influenza virus mutations, FASEB J. 15:1846–1848.

(2) Rayman MP 1997. Dietary selenium: time to act. BMJ 314:387-388

(3) Beck MA et al. 2004. Host nutritional status: the neglected virulence factor. Trends in Microbiology 12; 9:417-423

 

About Healthspan:

 

Healthspan was established in 1996 and is the UK’s leading home shopping supplier of vitamins, minerals and health supplements. Based in Guernsey, Healthspan offer pure, pharmaceutical grade vitamins and supplements, at permanently low, tax-free prices, direct to your door at no extra charge.

Every Healthspan product is formulated to the highest pharmaceutical standards and produced using only the purest (pharmacist approved) ingredients, in independently inspected and approved premises. For further information please visit www.healthspan.co.uk or freephone their customer service number on 0800 73 123 77.

 

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• Down Syndrome Children

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Celiacs disease means that the sufferer has to take care eating even a sandwich. What about a taco with sour cream? You probably weren’t aware of it at the time, but those foods you were eating probably contained gluten. To you that means nothing, but to a person suffering from celiacs disease it means a lot. Gluten attacks the small intestine, which causes the disease. This means those who have it have to go on a gluten free diet, which is a great sacrifice. This article will discuss how to identify gluten or wheat intolerance and how to still enjoy your life, gluten free.

Gluten is something that most people never have to consider. It is found in many foods and most do not realize they are consuming it. It is a protein that’s found in different grains, such as barley and wheat. In general, people consume wheat products every day. The first thing a person must do who has wheat intolerance, is thoroughly research foods that contain gluten. The best thing for celiacs to do is to look for keywords, which will hint to the use of gluten. Some of these words are vegetable protein, malt and vegetable gum.

Once you figure out those keywords, be certain to stay away from gluten that may be hidden in ingredient labels. At first it may seem like there isn’t anything that you can eat. You may not be able to eat pasta or regular cookies but there are plenty of alternatives. So many people are living on a gluten free diet that there are now gluten free foods available specifically for those who are suffering. You can indulge in gluten free cookies and gluten free pizza. The really good news is that most grocery stores now carry these products. You can also still consume fresh cut meat, fresh fruit and milk.

It is important to know what to expect once you start your gluten free diet for celiacs disease. If you are a big eater, especially of bread products, then your body is going to go through a huge transition. You should always speak with your doctor before starting yourself on gluten free foods. Being gluten intolerant is not easy and is hard for most people to understand. Remember that there are celiacs disease and other gluten intolerant disorder support groups out there, so don’t be afraid to join one and make life a little easier.

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Down Syndrome children, like everyone else, are people first, each with their own unique gifts to contribute to their families, friends and communities. “Down Syndrome Awareness Month provides a forum for dispelling stereotypes, providing accurate information, and raising awareness of the potential of individuals with Down syndrome.” Thanks to Down syndrome research and advocacy, the life expectancy for adults with Down syndrome has more than doubled since 1980, bringing with it improved educational standards, inclusion into regular schools and more jobs for the developmentally disabled, as well as better housing options.

The mission of the National Down Syndrome Society is “to benefit people with Down syndrome and their families through national leadership in education, research and advocacy.” They feel that everyone has the right to reach their potential and that people with Down syndrome should have the opportunity to make choices affecting their lives. Part of Down syndrome knowledge is pushing for better educational programs to help Down Syndrome children achieve their goals. Through the organization, parents can collect valuable resources and connect with local support groups. Down syndrome children can link up with local programs sponsored in part by NDSS, where they can foster a love of art, music or sports and gain the necessary tools to live a relatively independent life.

Each year, the Special Olympics serve as a beacon of light for Down syndrome awareness and instills hope in families of the developmentally disabled. This international nonprofit organization offers year-round sports programs focused on Down Syndrome children and adults. This epic event serves as a source of self esteem, confidence building and pride for 2.5 million people with intellectual disabilities. Their site, www.specialolympics.org, mentions the benefits of their athletic programs, stating: “They grow mentally, socially and spiritually and, through their activities, exhibit boundless courage and enthusiasm, enjoy the rewards of friendship and ultimately discover not only new abilities and talents but ‘their voices’ as well.”

Down Syndrome Awareness can be displayed as a postage stamp, a sweatshirt, a bumper sticker, or one of countless other promotional items. It could also be acted upon through an organization, be it a public speaking engagement, a benefit walk or the start of a new program that helps others. In the US, there are more than 350,000 Down Syndrome children and adults. With the average life span nearing sixty, the need for inclusion and social wellness is now more important than ever.

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