Selenium

Selenium - a powerful antioxidant that supports immunity, thyroid and cell health

Selenium is an essential micronutrient that plays a key role in many biological processes, particularly as a powerful antioxidant. It protects cells from oxidative damage, supports the proper functioning of the immune system, and plays an important role in thyroid health and the reproductive system. Although selenium is needed in very small amounts, selenium deficiency can lead to serious health problems such as weakened immunity, thyroid dysfunction and increased risk of chronic diseases.

Selenium is found in a wide range of foods, such as Brazil nuts, fish, meat and whole-grain cereals, but its levels in food depend on the content of this mineral in the soil. In regions where the soil is deficient in selenium, supplementation may be necessary to ensure an adequate supply of this important element.

Main benefits and functions of selenium

✅ Strong antioxidant protection

• • Selenium is a key component of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase, one of the most important antioxidant enzymes in the body. Its main function is to neutralise free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage, which is associated with the ageing process and the development of many chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Thanks to its antioxidant properties, selenium helps to prevent cell damage, which can help to reduce the risk of degenerative diseases.

✅ Supporting thyroid health

• • Selenium plays a key role in thyroid health. It helps in the production of thyroid hormones and protects the thyroid gland from oxidative stress. The thyroid gland contains some of the highest concentrations of selenium in the body, indicating its vital importance in the functioning of this gland. Selenium deficiency can lead to thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's disease. Regular selenium supplementation supports the normal production of thyroid hormones, which is key to maintaining a healthy metabolism, energy and overall wellbeing.

✅ Supporting the immune system

• • Selenium plays a key role in the functioning of the immune system. It supports the production and activity of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting infections and pathogens. It also acts as a modulator of the immune response, meaning that it can support the immune system in fighting infections, while protecting against excessive inflammatory responses that can lead to tissue damage. Selenium supplementation can help prevent viral and bacterial infections and support overall immunity.

✅ Supporting heart health

• • Research indicates that selenium may support cardiovascular health, helping to prevent heart disease. Selenium reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, which are associated with the development of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. In addition, selenium helps to regulate cholesterol, which may contribute to reducing the risk of heart disease, such as heart attack and stroke.

✅ Protection against cancer

• • Due to its antioxidant properties, selenium may play a role in protection against cancer. Research suggests that adequate levels of selenium in the body may reduce the risk of certain cancers, such as prostate cancer, lung cancer and colorectal cancer. Selenium promotes DNA repair and prevents cell mutations that can lead to cancer development.

✅ Support for reproductive health

• • Selenium plays an important role in the health of the reproductive system, in both men and women. In men, selenium supports sperm production and maturation and protects sperm from oxidative damage, which is important for fertility. In women, selenium supports thyroid health, which is key to maintaining normal menstrual cycles and fertility.

✅ Protection of skin and hair health

• • Selenium supports skin and hair health, helping to maintain elasticity and strength. It acts as an antioxidant, protecting the skin from damage caused by UV radiation and environmental pollutants. Selenium can also support skin health by reducing inflammation, which contributes to skin problems such as acne and psoriasis.

Forms of selenium in supplements

🟧 Selenomethionine

• • Selenomethionine is one of the best absorbed forms of selenium, as it is a naturally occurring organic compound that is easily absorbed in the gut. It is often used in dietary supplements, especially for people with selenium absorption problems or at risk of selenium deficiency.

🟧 Sodium selenate

• • Sodium selenate is an inorganic form of selenium that is effectively used in supplements. Although less bioavailable than selenomethionine, it is still an effective source of selenium and is used in many supplements.

🟧 Selenium chelate

• • Selenium chelate is a form of selenium bound to amino acids, which improves its bioavailability. Chelated forms of selenium are well tolerated by the digestive system and are often used in supplements with high bioavailability.

🟧 Selenium from yeast

• • Yeast-derived selenium is an organic form of selenium that is well absorbed and close to natural sources of selenium in food. It is particularly valued for its antioxidant properties and beneficial effects on thyroid health.

Symptoms of selenium deficiency

• Weakened immunity: Frequent infections and slower recovery rates may indicate a deficiency of selenium, which supports immune function.
• Thyroid problems: Selenium deficiency can lead to thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism, manifested by fatigue, weight gain and concentration problems.
• Skin problems: Selenium deficiency can lead to weakened skin structure, increased risk of skin irritation and inflammation.
• Hair problems: Weakened, dull and brittle hair can be a sign of selenium deficiency.
• Cardiovascular problems: Selenium deficiency can lead to heart disorders and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Who should consider selenium supplementation?

❎ People with thyroid disorders: Selenium supplementation may support thyroid health and regulation of hormone production, especially in people with hypothyroidism or Hashimoto's disease.

❎ People with weakened immunity: Selenium supports immune function, so supplementation may help those prone to infections.

❎ People prone to oxidative stress: Selenium acts as a powerful antioxidant, supporting the body in the fight against free radicals and oxidative stress, which is important for people exposed to environmental pollutants, smoking or intense exercise.

❎ Pregnant women: Selenium plays an important role in thyroid health, which is crucial for a healthy pregnancy. Selenium supplementation can support healthy fetal development and prevent thyroid disorders in the mother.

❎ People with skin problems: Selenium supplementation can support skin health by helping to reduce inflammation and improving the overall appearance of the skin.

Summary

Selenium is an extremely important mineral that plays a key role in protecting cells from oxidative stress, supporting thyroid health, the immune system and the heart. Its regular supplementation can help to prevent thyroid disease, strengthen immunity, protect against cancer and support the body's overall vitality. Depending on individual needs, the different forms of selenium available in supplements allow the diet to be effectively supplemented with this essential element, which is fundamental to the health of many systems in the human body.