ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test

Which mineral protects body tissues against oxidative damage?

1. Iron

2. Fluoride

3. Chromium

4. Selenium

The correct answer is: Selenium

Selenium is recognized as a key mineral that plays a critical role in protecting body tissues against oxidative damage. It functions primarily as a component of several important antioxidant enzymes, such as glutathione peroxidase. These enzymes help neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage, contributing to various diseases and aging processes. By reducing oxidative stress, selenium contributes to overall cellular health and cellular integrity, thus playing a significant role in preventing disorders related to oxidative damage. The other minerals listed, while essential in their own right, do not have the same direct impact on oxidative damage. For instance, iron is vital for oxygen transport in the blood but can contribute to oxidative stress if in excess. Fluoride mainly helps in dental health and does not play a role in oxidative protection. Chromium is involved in carbohydrate metabolism and insulin sensitivity, but it doesn’t directly protect against oxidative damage like selenium does.