and kidney failure. The significance of these blood levels is not
known. In contrast, elevated blood levels of nickel are associated
with the development of cancer, heart attack, thyroid disorders,
psoriasis and eczema.
Deficiency: Nickel settles in sinus, joints, and spinal column. Can be a
nephro-toxin, effecting the urinary tract, especially the kidneys. It is
found to bind with blood fungus causing tumors. Can paralyze the
spinal column and bring on epilepsy. Can cause dermatitis and other
skin conditions, allergic reactions and chronic rhinitis. Inflammation
of lungs and liver, leading to necrosis and carcinoma.
Toxicity: Leads to paralysis, overflow of blood to brain, and epilepsy. In
excess, can be a carcinogenic. Can rob the body of oxygen. Every
tumor needs nickel to hold it together!Selenium (Se)
Acid/Alkaline: Acid-forming
Food sources: Kelp/dulse, garlic, mushrooms, organic vegetables,
grains, broccoli, onions, brazil nuts. Most foods.
Toxic sources: Soil. Also, the refining of flour removes much of the
selenium that is concentrated in the germ and bran. It is important to
eat whole-grain products, since the selenium is not added back into
“enriched” flour.
Uses in the body: The most important known function of selenium is as
a component of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase.
Selenium is a co-factor in an enzyme that protects body tissues
(especially cell membranes) from oxidation by unstable free radicals.
Selenium also works closely with the antioxidant vitamin E. Protects
all membranes, reduces risk of cancer, enhances immune system,
antioxidant. Lowers requirement for B12.
Deficiency: Muscle weakness, linked to cancer and heart disease, fatigue,
dandruff, loose skin, growth retardation, elevated cholesterol levels,
susceptibility to infection, sterility, and liver damage. Down’s
Syndrome, fibrocystic breast disease, Cystic Fibrosis, Muscular
Dystrophy.
Toxicity: May include “garlic” breath, loss of hair, fingernails and
toenails, irritability, liver and kidney impairment, metallic taste in