Germanium is a trace mineral with the atomic number of 32 that has been found to promote the production of interferon. This is a substance produced in the body that works to prevent viruses and bacteria from penetrating the body’s cells.
This means germanium can help treat those infected by viruses such as the Epstein-Barr virus and HIV/AIDS. It also strengthens the immune system and can act as a painkiller.
This mineral has an anti-tumour function and is used as a part of the treatment of cancer.
Germanium also helps to keep a balance in the body and can therefore lower high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. Germanium normalises many physiological functions, such as blood characteristics including pH, glucose, minerals, cholesterol, uric acid, haemoglobin and leukocytes. For that reason it is an essential mineral for diabetics, people with raised LDL cholesterol levels, and those suffering with gout.
Germanium deficiency
Low levels of germanium can reduce the efficiency of the immune system and affect cholesterol and blood sugar levels. It may cause the body to become acidic and cause inflammation as well.
WARNING: Supplements of germanium should be avoided because of the risk of kidney damage.
Natural food sources of germanium in alphabetical order
NOTE: Mushrooms should be avoided by people with the herpes virus as, like yeast products, mushrooms can bring on an outbreak.
Related subjects
- A-Z of nutrients
- Bacterial infections
- Cancer
- Epstein-Barr-virus
- Gout
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol levels
- HIV/AIDS
- Immune system
- Kidney disorders
- Minerals
- Virus infections
References:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10295216