Selenium is an essential trace mineral crucial for antioxidant defense, thyroid hormone metabolism, and immune function.
Selenium is an essential trace mineral vital for antioxidant defense, thyroid hormone metabolism, and immune function. It is incorporated into selenoproteins, playing crucial roles in protecting cells from oxidative damage, converting thyroid hormones, and supporting immune cell activity. While beneficial within the recommended daily intake, excessive selenium can lead to selenosis. Emerging research continues to explore its potential in cancer prevention. Selenium can be obtained through diet or supplementation. Dosage should be carefully considered.
Key Information
Inside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
55-200mcg daily
Source Type
natural
Production Process
Selenium for supplementation is primarily derived from yeast grown in selenium-rich media or synthesized chemically. Selenized yeast incorporates selenium into selenoproteins.
Use Type
Inside BodyPotential Benefits
Antioxidant support protects cells from damage by neutralizing free radicals, supporting immune function, and reducing inflammation. It contributes to overall health and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Supports healthy thyroid function by providing nutrients for hormone synthesis and conversion, reducing inflammation, and protecting against oxidative stress. May improve energy levels, mood, weight management, and cognitive function.
Antioxidant protection defends the body against free radical damage, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and promoting overall cellular health. This is achieved by neutralizing unstable molecules that cause oxidative stress and cellular damage.
Zinc supports the immune system by enhancing immune cell activity, reducing infection risk, and modulating inflammatory responses. Supplementation is particularly beneficial for individuals with zinc deficiencies, helping to restore optimal zinc levels and bolster immune response.
Antioxidants neutralize harmful free radicals, preventing cellular damage and reducing oxidative stress, which can contribute to overall health and disease prevention. They work by donating electrons to stabilize free radicals and supporting antioxidant enzyme systems.
Supports the body's defense against pathogens, enhances immune cell activity, and reduces inflammation. Improved immune function leads to fewer infections and faster recovery.
Selenium intake might lower the risk of certain cancers like prostate, lung, and colorectal cancer. More studies are needed to confirm these findings and clarify the mechanisms involved.
Antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, reducing inflammation, and promoting overall health. They neutralize these unstable molecules by donating electrons and preventing them from damaging cellular structures.
Copper is essential for the function of superoxide dismutase (SOD), a powerful antioxidant enzyme. SOD protects cells from damage caused by free radicals by converting them into less harmful substances.
Possible Side Effects
Gastrointestinal upset involves a variety of digestive symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and may indicate an underlying condition if persistent.
Hair loss, or alopecia, can range from thinning to complete baldness, caused by genetics, hormones, medical conditions, medications, stress, poor nutrition, or hairstyles. It can significantly impact mental health.
Nail brittleness (onychorrhexis) involves fragile, easily split, and peeling nails. It can be caused by various factors, including chemical exposure, nutritional deficiencies, and underlying medical conditions.
Selenosis is a toxic condition resulting from excessive selenium intake. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, hair loss, nail abnormalities, and neurological problems.
Garlic breath is a garlic-like odor on the breath caused by the metabolism of excess selenium. It is generally harmless but can be socially undesirable.
Scientific Evidence
Numerous studies published in journals such as the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, The Lancet, and the Journal of the American Medical Association demonstrate the benefits and risks of selenium. Specific studies include those investigating selenium's role in thyroid hormone metabolism, antioxidant defense, and cancer prevention.
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