Selenium doesn’t often get the limelight, but it should!
Selenium is a trace mineral that is incorporated into body proteins (called selenoproteins) that play a role in immune function, thyroid hormones, reproductive health, and more.
Here are 5 benefits of selenium you should care about:
1️⃣ Selenium is a powerful antioxidant, supporting cellular and immune health.
2️⃣ Selenium is a cofactor for enzymes needed to produce glutathione—one of the body’s most important molecules for antioxidant defense and detoxification.
3️⃣ Selenium concentrates in the thyroid gland, where it is essential for thyroid hormone metabolism.
4️⃣ Selenium supports heart health because of its beneficial effects on inflammatory pathways.
5️⃣ Selenium supports brain health and cognitive function with age.
Selenium is present in small amounts in lots of different foods, but the absolute best food source of selenium is Brazil nuts. A single Brazil nut can provide as much as 90 mcg of selenium (enough to meet the recommended daily intake!).
Selenium can also be supplemented, but we often combine it with other synergistic nutrients depending on your health goals.
Want to discuss ways we can use nutrition to improve and optimize your health? That’s what we’re here for. Schedule your Free Functional Medicine Session here.
