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Germanium- Benefits, Deficiency Symptoms And Food Sources

What is Germanium?

Germanium was discovered by a German, Clemens Winkler in 1886 (thus the name Germanium). It is closely related to the elements carbon and silica.Germanium improves cellular oxygenation. Germanium is one of the most dynamic new discoveries in the realm of trace elements necessary for optimum nutritional health. Germanium raises the level of activity of various organs (facilitates oxygen uptake) and helps to expel harmful pollutants and arrest germ activity. Germanium serves as an electrical semiconductor, helping correct distortions in the electrical fields of the body. Germanium is best obtained through the diet.

Uses and Benefits of Germanium

Germanium improves cellular oxygenation. This helps to fight pain, keep the immune system functioning properly, and rid the body of toxins and poisons. Researchers have shown that consuming foods containing organic germanium is an effective way to increase tissue oxygenation, because, like hemoglobin, germanium acts as a carrier of oxygen to the cells. A Japanese scientist, Kazuhiko Asai, found that an intake of 100 to 300 milligrams of germanium per day improved many illnesses, including rheumatoid arthritis, food allergies, elevated cholesterol, candidiasis, chronic viral infections, cancer, and AIDS.

Recommended Dosage of Germanium

The Recommended Daily Allowance for germanium is 100 to 300 milligrams per day.

Deficiency Symptoms of Germanium

Some of the common deficiency symptoms of germanium are :-

• Asthma
• Leukemia
• lung cancer
• Cardiac insufficiency
• Nephritis
• Softening of brain tissue

Rich Food Sources of Germanium

Germanium is found in all organic material, of both plant and animal origin. The following foods contain the greatest concentrations of germanium: broccoli, celery, garlic, shiitake mushrooms, milk, onions, rhubarb, sauerkraut, tomato juice, and the herbs aloe vera, comfrey, ginseng, and suma.

Cautions

Although it is rare, some individuals may develop kidney problems or have a toxic reaction to this mineral if they take it in excessive amounts.