If you are not sure you are familiar with the basic information about Selenium, this text is here to enable you to find out some important details. Selenium is an essential mineral vital to the body. Although the organism needs it in small quantities, selenium has a major role in metabolic reactions and normal thyroid function. The highest concentration of selenium is found in the thyroid gland tissue where it contributes to the proper synthesis of hormones and enables the conversion of the hormone thyroxine into triiodothyronine, which is its active form.
Selenium has a strong antioxidant effect – it is necessary for the activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, two main enzymes that protect cells from oxidative damage. Additionally, selenium protects the body from heavy metals such as mercury, lead and cadmium. Alongside other minerals it contributes to forming immune system cells and increases the body’s response to fighting infections.
Selenium’s role in the body:
- Normal thyroid function
- Normal development and function of the immune system
- Antioxidant effect
- Contributes to the maintenance of normal cognitive function
- Reduces the risk of developing certain types of cancers
- Contributes to the protection of the heart and reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular disease
- Contributes to normal spermatogenesis and reproduction
The amount of Selenium that can be found in plant based food varies depending on the amounts of selenium found in the soil where the food is grown. The combination of different types of foods that contain selenium as well as adequate supplementation should be enough to satisfy the body’s needs for this mineral.
In which food we can find Selenium?
- Brazilian nut
- Eggs
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Fish
- Seafood
- Mushrooms
- Beans
Recommended daily intake of selenium:
- 0 to 6 months -15mcg
- 7 months to 3 years-20mcg
- 4 to 8 years- 30mcg
- 9 to 13 years-40mcg
- Older than 14 years- 55mcg
This was some short information regarding selenium, a mineral of vitality. Stay with us of course, because this was just a warm – up, many useful information about selenium are coming up in the future, as well as other vitamins and minerals. More information about BiVits minerals can be found on our BiVits YouTube channel.
