Selenium is a mineral that is essential for the body.
It plays a key role in the functioning of many organ systems. It is an essential trace mineral that performs its function by building on proteins. As we know, trace elements are micronutrients that are only found in trace amounts in our bodies.
They enter the blood through the small intestine and are stored mainly in skeletal muscle. They are also found in the kidneys, heart, liver, blood and brain. Since the human body cannot produce selenium on its own, we need to supplement it regularly with food or supplements.
Selenium deficiency can lead to a number of health problems, including:
- is also a major contributor to haematological diseases, such as anaemia, when it is deficient in the body,
- selenium deficiency can contribute to a general feeling of fatigue, causing a lethargic, discouraged state,
- to the development of hypothyroidism, as many of the enzymes needed for proper metabolism contain selenium.
- may increase the severity of certain diseases caused by viruses, because in case of deficiency, inflammatory processes caused by viruses may increase.
- can contribute to myocardial infarction and cardiovascular disease
- certain neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, may also be linked to selenium deficiency
- selenium deficiency has also been linked to the development of certain cancers.
- selenium is a component of an important enzyme that is needed to protect and detoxify the liver. If a deficiency occurs, it can lead to various liver diseases.
In the case of women, selenium deficiency can also affect the
healthy growth of hair and nails, and if lacking, it can cause dull, split, clumpy, and severe hair problems
it can also lead to a number of skin problems, such as increased pigmentation phenomena like moles and liver spots.
excessively low selenium levels in women can cause menstrual disturbances
In the case of men, selenium deficiency affects the
sperm. They may show a deterioration in quality, or even a significant slowing of their movement. This can even make affected men infertile.
Selenium can be ingested through food or supplements.
Foods rich in selenium include:
Seafood, Brown rice
Broccoli, Cabbage, Millet
Kale, Spinach, Brussels sprouts
Flaxseed, Sesame seeds, Pistachios
Selenium is a very important trace element, so it’s worth making sure you get enough of it.