CellWise
Also known as: CellWise, Selenium yeast, Selenium-enriched yeast
Overview
CellWise is a branded supplement ingredient primarily composed of selenium-enriched yeast, which provides bioavailable selenium in an organic form. This supplement is derived from yeast grown in selenium-rich media, leading to the incorporation of selenium mainly as selenomethionine, a natural organic form. Its primary uses include supporting immune function, enhancing antioxidant defense, and improving overall selenium nutritional status. CellWise is characterized by its high bioavailability, often preferred over inorganic selenium salts due to better absorption and utilization by the body. Selenium supplementation, including forms like CellWise, has been extensively studied, with high-quality evidence from randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews supporting its roles in immune modulation and antioxidant effects.
Benefits
Selenium-enriched yeast, such as CellWise, offers several evidence-based benefits. A systematic review and meta-analysis of human studies found that selenium supplementation significantly improves markers of immune function, including enhanced lymphocyte proliferation and increased activity of natural killer cells, with statistically significant effect sizes. This indicates clinically relevant improvements in immune responsiveness. Selenium also acts as a crucial cofactor for antioxidant enzymes like glutathione peroxidase, thereby reducing oxidative stress and potentially lowering inflammation. The benefits are most pronounced in populations with low baseline selenium status or increased oxidative stress, such as elderly individuals or those with compromised immunity. Benefits typically manifest after several weeks of supplementation, aligning with the time needed to replenish selenium-dependent enzyme systems.
How it works
Selenium from CellWise is incorporated into selenoproteins, which are vital for various biological functions. Key selenoproteins include glutathione peroxidases and thioredoxin reductases, which play critical roles in protecting cells from oxidative damage and regulating the body's redox status. By supporting these enzymes, selenium enhances immune cell function, modulating oxidative stress, and supporting the proliferation and cytotoxic activity of immune cells. Organic selenium from selenium yeast is highly bioavailable, efficiently absorbed in the small intestine, and readily incorporated into body proteins, ensuring its effective utilization within these pathways.
Side effects
Selenium supplementation at recommended doses is generally safe with a low incidence of adverse effects. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort is occasionally reported, but this is rare. No uncommon side effects have been consistently reported in high-quality trials. Rare side effects, such as selenosis symptoms (including hair loss, nail brittleness, and garlic breath), occur only at doses significantly exceeding the upper intake levels (typically above 400 mcg/day). Selenium may interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants and some chemotherapeutic agents, so caution is advised for individuals on these treatments. Contraindications include known selenium hypersensitivity. Caution is also recommended for patients with certain chronic diseases. Pregnant and lactating women should adhere strictly to recommended selenium intake levels to ensure safety for both mother and child.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for selenium supplementation is approximately 55 mcg/day, aligning with recommended dietary allowances. Optimal dosage ranges for supplementation typically fall between 55–200 mcg/day, depending on an individual's baseline selenium status and specific health goals. The maximum safe dose, or upper intake level, is generally set at 400 mcg/day to avoid potential toxicity. For best absorption, CellWise should be taken daily with meals. Organic selenium yeast, like CellWise, is preferred due to its superior bioavailability compared to inorganic forms. Absorption may be reduced by high doses of competing minerals such as zinc. Adequate intake of vitamins E and C may synergistically enhance selenium's antioxidant effects.
FAQs
Is CellWise safe for long-term use?
Yes, within recommended doses (up to 200 mcg/day), long-term use of CellWise is considered safe and effective for maintaining optimal selenium status and supporting health.
How soon can benefits be expected?
Immune and antioxidant benefits from CellWise typically begin to manifest after 4–8 weeks of consistent daily supplementation, as the body replenishes its selenium-dependent enzyme systems.
Can CellWise prevent infections?
While CellWise supports and enhances immune function, it is not a standalone preventive treatment for infections. It contributes to a robust immune system, which can better defend against pathogens.
Is selenium from CellWise better than other forms?
Yes, organic selenium yeast like CellWise has superior bioavailability and absorption compared to inorganic selenium forms, making it a more effective choice for supplementation.
Are there risks of overdose?
Yes, exceeding the upper intake level of 400 mcg/day can lead to selenium toxicity (selenosis), causing symptoms like hair loss, nail brittleness, and gastrointestinal issues.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36789948/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis by Filippini et al. (2023) assessed the effects of selenium supplementation on immune function in humans. It found that selenium significantly enhanced immune markers such as lymphocyte proliferation and natural killer cell activity, providing high-quality evidence for selenium's immune benefits despite some heterogeneity in study designs.
- https://www.bmj.com/content/346/bmj.f10 – Myung et al. (2013) conducted a meta-analysis of 50 RCTs on antioxidant supplements, including selenium. While the study had mixed results on cardiovascular prevention, it confirmed the antioxidant roles of selenium. Its large sample size and rigorous methodology strengthen the findings, although selenium-specific effects were not always isolated.
- https://stemcellsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/sctm.19-0419 – Hickson et al. (2021) conducted a systematic review focused on cell-based therapies. While not directly about selenium, this study provides context on the importance of cellular function and immune modulation, indirectly supporting selenium's biological relevance in maintaining cell health and immune processes.
