What role do minerals play in oxidative balance?
Written by
Robert Kelly
Reviewed by
Prof. Graham Pierce, Ph.D.Minerals are essential for cofactor activity in your body's antioxidant enzymes. Selenium is required to power the glutathione peroxidase, which neutralizes hydrogen peroxide. Zinc helps maintain the structure of superoxide dismutase, an enzyme that destroys superoxide radicals. Copper is essential for electron transport, which prevents the formation of free radicals. Without these minerals, your cellular defenses cannot function effectively.
Selenium
- Essential component of glutathione peroxidase enzymes
- Catalyzes reduction of hydrogen peroxide to water
- Supports thyroid hormone conversion processes
- Recycles vitamin C for continued antioxidant action
Zinc
- Structural component of superoxide dismutase
- Stabilizes cell membranes against oxidative damage
- Supports DNA repair enzyme function
- Enhances immune cell antioxidant capacity
Copper
- Cofactor for cytochrome c oxidase in electron transport
- Partner with zinc in superoxide dismutase
- Prevents Fenton reactions creating hydroxyl radicals
- Supports iron metabolism preventing oxidation
Selenium is the active component in glutathione peroxidase enzymes, which convert harmful peroxides into harmless water molecules. Brazil nuts are rich in selenium, and the daily requirement can be satisfied by as few as two nuts. I've seen clients enhance their thyroid function with the proper amounts of selenium through supplementation. Your cellular protection is predicated on the amount of selenium available.
Zinc and copper are in balance in superoxide dismutase. This enzyme changes superoxide radicals to less harmful hydrogen peroxide. Too much zinc lowers the amount of copper, creating an imbalance. Shellfish supply both minerals naturally. I recommend a regular intake of oysters to help balance mineral intake.
Trace minerals support each other in antioxidant defence. Manganese activates mitochondrial superoxide dismutase. Iron requires proper handling to avoid oxidation. Selenium helps to recycle vitamin C, increasing its effectiveness. This mineral support group provides complete cellular defence against many oxidising substances.
Deficiencies create measurable oxidative stress. Low selenium levels reduce glutathione activity, leading to increased oxidative damage. Zinc deficiency affects the antioxidant function of immune cells. The measure of your minerals guides your personalized supplementation. I use RBC mineral analysis to find out what is needed by each client. The level of your cellular protection depends on the minerals being sufficient.
Read the full article: Oxidative Stress Reduction: Proven Strategies
