Selenium is a chemical element with the symbol Se and atomic number 34. It is a nonmetal with properties that are intermediate between those of adjacent chalcogen elements sulfur and tellurium. It rarely occurs in its elemental state or as pure ore compounds in the Earth's crust. Selenium (from Ancient Greek σελήνη (selḗnē) "Moon") was discovered in 1817 by Jöns Jacob Berzelius, who noted the similarity of the new element to the previously discovered tellurium (named for the Earth).

Selenium has a number of important biological roles. It is a component of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase, which plays a crucial role in the body's antioxidant defense system. It is also required for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland and for the metabolism of iodine. Selenium deficiency can lead to a number of health problems, including impaired immune function and an increased risk of certain types of cancer. On the other hand, excessive intake of selenium can also be toxic.

What is the appropriate amount of selenium for the human body?

The recommended daily intake of selenium for adults is 55 micrograms (mcg) per day for men and women. However, the specific amount of selenium that an individual needs can vary depending on their age, sex, and level of physical activity. For example, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding have higher selenium requirements than other adults.

It is generally recommended to get your selenium from dietary sources, as it is easier to get the right amount of selenium through your diet than through supplements. Good dietary sources of selenium include nuts, such as Brazil nuts and almonds; seafood, such as tuna and halibut; and whole grains. It is also possible to get selenium from fortified foods, such as bread and cereals, or from selenium supplements.

If you are considering taking a selenium supplement, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider first, as excessive intake of selenium can be toxic. Too much selenium can cause selenosis, which can lead to symptoms such as hair loss, white blotchy nails, and fatigue. In severe cases, selenosis can cause nervous system problems and lead to problems with the heart, liver, and other organs.

What are health benefits of balanced amount of selenium in my diet?

Selenium is an essential nutrient that plays a number of important roles in the body. Adequate intake of selenium may provide the following health benefits:

  • Supporting the immune system: Selenium is a component of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase, which helps protect the body from oxidative stress and supports the immune system.

  • Reducing the risk of certain types of cancer: Some studies have found that higher selenium intake may be associated with a reduced risk of certain types of cancer, including prostate, colon, and lung cancer.

  • Supporting thyroid function: Selenium is required for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland and the metabolism of iodine. Adequate selenium intake may help support healthy thyroid function.

  • Improving fertility: Selenium plays a role in sperm production and motility, and some studies have found that selenium supplementation may improve fertility in men.

It is generally recommended to get your selenium from dietary sources, as it is easier to get the right amount of selenium through your diet than through supplements. Good dietary sources of selenium include nuts, such as Brazil nuts and almonds; seafood, such as tuna and halibut; and whole grains. It is also possible to get selenium from fortified foods, such as bread and cereals.

What are a list of foods that have selenium in safe levels?

Here is a list of some common foods that are good sources of selenium:

  • Brazil nuts: Brazil nuts are one of the best dietary sources of selenium. Just one or two nuts can provide more than the recommended daily intake of selenium.

  • Seafood: Seafood, such as tuna, halibut, and sardines, is a good source of selenium.

  • Meat: Meat, particularly organ meats such as liver and kidney, is a good source of selenium.

  • Eggs: Eggs are a good source of selenium, with one large egg providing about 15-20% of the recommended daily intake.

  • Whole grains: Whole grains, such as whole wheat, oats, and brown rice, contain selenium.

  • Dairy products: Dairy products, such as milk and cheese, contain small amounts of selenium.

  • Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds, such as almonds and sunflower seeds, are good sources of selenium.

It is generally recommended to get your nutrients from a varied and balanced diet, rather than relying on a single food or supplement. This can help ensure that you get all the nutrients you need to support good health.

What are symptoms of not enough selenium?

Selenium is an essential nutrient, which means that it is necessary for the body to function properly. A deficiency in selenium can lead to a number of health problems.

Some of the symptoms of selenium deficiency may include:

  • fatigue

  • weak immune system

  • fertility problems

  • muscle weakness

  • cognitive decline

  • hair loss

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and suspect that you may have a selenium deficiency, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider. They can perform a blood test to check your selenium levels and determine the cause of your symptoms. If a deficiency is detected, they can recommend treatment options, such as dietary changes or supplements, to help you get the selenium you need.

What are symptoms of too much selenium?

Excessive intake of selenium can cause a condition called selenosis, which can lead to symptoms such as:

  • hair loss

  • white blotchy nails

  • fatigue

  • irritability

  • a metallic taste in the mouth

In severe cases, selenosis can cause nervous system problems and lead to problems with the heart, liver, and other organs.

If you are taking a selenium supplement and are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider immediately. They can help determine whether your symptoms are related to selenium toxicity and recommend treatment options.

It is generally recommended to get your selenium from dietary sources rather than supplements, as it is easier to get the right amount of selenium through your diet. If you are considering taking a selenium supplement, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider first to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for you.

Youngevity products containing Selenium

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