Selenium is an antioxidant that has important roles in the body.  Deficiency can cause issues with hormones and other body processes.

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Purposes of selenium:

• protects cell membranes from free radicals

• protects against cancer

• protects against cardiovascular disease

• helps to synthesize and convert thyroid hormone, along with other minerals

What happens when you are deficient:

• immune function is lowered

• possible fertility issues

• thyroid imbalance and disorders

• severe deficiency could cause issues with the heart muscle and other issues

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It is also possible to get too much selenium which could lead to issues with the nervous system as well as brittle hair and nails.

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SOURCES:

• a major source is Brazil nuts!

• shellfish

• eggs

• certain meats (grass-fed, organic)

If soil health is high, the following vegetable grown in that soil are high in selenium:

• broccoli

• Brussels sprouts

• cabbage

• garlic

• kale

• collards

• cauliflower

• onions

• whole grains

• oats

• brown rice

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How much is safe:

It is important to understand that if you are already consuming enough selenium in your diet, you may not need to supplement.  As always, consult a healthcare advisor before taking a supplement.

• According to the USDA these are the recommendations based on age and situation:

• Children aged 1-3 = 20 micro grams/day

• Children aged 4-8 = 30 micro grams/day

• Children 9-13 = 40 micro grams/day

• Adults and children over 14 = 55 micro grams/day

• Pregnant women = 60 micro grams/day

• Breastfeeding women = 70 micro grams/day

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Tolerable upper limit is 400 micro grams per day.

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Bottom line:  Selenium is a trace mineral that acts as an antioxidant as well as plays a major role in body processes.  Your major source should be from food and not necessarily a supplement.  Eat whole healthy foods and limit processed foods to help get your required vitamins and minerals each day! 

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This information is not intended to treat, diagnose, or cure any disease.  Informational purposes only.  These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.

Sources: draxe.com, herbalacademy.com

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