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What is
Selenium?
Selenium is a trace mineral
that is essential to good health but required only in small
amounts. Selenium is incorporated into proteins to make
selenoproteins, which are important antioxidant enzymes. The
antioxidant properties of selenoproteins help prevent
cellular damage from free radicals.
What Does
in the Body?
Some of the benefits of
selenium in addition to protecting heart health include
immune system support, protecting against various forms of
cancer, anti-aging and helping to prevent arthritis.
Selenium is essential for a
healthy immune system, assisting the body in defending
itself against harmful bacteria and viruses, as well as
cancer cells.
Where is it Found?
Food Sources of selenium include meats like beef, chicken
and seafood. Also seeds, whole grains, nuts, and brown rice provide significant amounts
of this mineral.
Recommended Daily Intakes: adults men is 70 mcg, adults
women 55 mcg Symptoms
Of Deficiency/Side Effects
Some of the Symptoms of deficiency for this mineral are
muscle weakness and discomfort, high cholesterol, frequent
infections (which may indicate poor immune system function),
and poor liver and pancreas function which may result in
symptoms like gas, bloating and indigestion.
Overdosing on selenium or selenium poisoning can cause
depression, nausea and vomiting, nervousness and loss of
hair and fingernails along with a breath odor. |
