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L-selenomethionine

Methionine is an essential amino acid containing a sulfur (S). Methionine must be present in order for body protein synthesis to take place. Selenomethionine is a similar amino acid compound that contains selenium (Se) in place of sulfur. The importance of this amino acid lies within its selenium content. Se is an important element and is necessary in the diet. The body requires certain levels of selelenium. That requirement is fulfilled by the incorporation of selenomethionine in the diet. Nearly 90% of selenium in the diet is consumed in the form of L-selenomethionine from wheats, garins, and other plants. L-selenomethionine has shown to have more bioavailability and I therefore a better source than inorganic selenium. Retention of L-selenomethionine indicates that the Se from this compound is efficiently absorbed and readily available for use (Deagan, 1987) (Swanson, 1991).

Selenium is an essential micronutrient for humans and nearly all other animals. This mineral was first recognized as the red byproduct of sulfur production in 1817. The nutritional importance of selenium was not recognized until the late 1950's when an animal study showed that deficiency could lead to liver disease. These results spawned a number of studies that sought to identify the many effects of selenium deficiency. One result of extensive research was the identification of 25 human selenium-containing enzymes and proteins. The chemoprotective abilities of selenium have also been identified. According to Clark et al selenium supplementation was associated with a decrease in the incidence of prostate, lung, and colorectal cancer by nearly 50% (Clark, 1996). Other areas that are being studied for the benefits of selenium supplementation include heart disease, arthritis, HIV, and viral immunity.

References

L. C. Clark, G. F. Combs Jr, B. W. Turnbull, E. H. Slate, D. K. Chalker, J. Chow, L. S. Davis, R. A. Glover, G. F. Graham, E. G. Gross, A. Krongrad, J. L. Lesher Jr, H. K. Park, B. B. Sanders Jr, C. L. Smith and J. R. Taylor. Effects of selenium supplementation for cancer prevention in patients with carcinoma of the skin. A randomized controlled trial. Nutritional Prevention of Cancer Study Group. JAMA. 276(24). December 25, 1996

Deagan JT, Butler JA, Beilstein MA, et al. Effects of dietary selenite, SeCys and selenomethionine on selenocysteine lyase and glutathione peroxidase activities and on selenium levels in rat tissues. J Nutr. 1987; 117:91-98.

Swanson CA, Patterson B, Levander O, et al. Human (74Se)selenomethionine metabolism: a kinetic model. Am J Clin Nutr. 1991; 54:917-926.