Selenium: The Essential Mineral You Might Be Missing
Selenium, an essential trace mineral, often overlooked, plays a pivotal role in maintaining optimal health, impacting everything from immune function to thyroid health and even fertility. Do you know, months of unexplained fatigue, recurring colds, and feeling rundown can be caused by a Selenium deficiency. Despite its significance, many people remain unaware of Selenium’s importance—or the symptoms of its deficiency.
What Is Selenium?
Selenium is a trace mineral that the body requires in small amounts but relies on for critical functions. Found naturally in soil, water, and certain foods, in highly variable amounts. Selenium acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from damage and supporting overall health. It is a key component in enzymes and proteins that regulate vital bodily processes and acts as a powerful antioxidant.
The Benefits of Selenium
- Antioxidant Power and Heart Health
Selenium helps combat oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals, which can damage cells and accelerate aging. Working synergistically with Vitamin E, this reduction in oxidative stress and associated inflammation, helps support cardiovascular health and according to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, higher levels of Selenium are linked to the reduced risk of Coronary Artery Disease.
Selenium’s antioxidant powerhouse is also seen in low levels of Selenium being a strong predictor of cancer and those with higher levels have lower levels of cancer.
- Thyroid Health
The thyroid gland contains the highest concentration of Selenium in the body. This mineral is essential for producing and regulating thyroid hormones, which control metabolism and energy levels. Research published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism shows that adequate Selenium levels can reduce the risk of autoimmune thyroid disorders like Hashimoto’s disease and Graves’ disease. Selenium has been shown to reduce TPO Antibodies found in Hashimoto’s patients.
- Immune System Support
Selenium boosts the immune system by enhancing the body’s ability to fight infections. Studies have shown that Selenium supplementation can improve outcomes in individuals with weakened immune systems.
- Reproductive Health
Selenium plays a critical role in fertility for both men and women. It contributes to sperm motility and quality, while also supporting healthy egg production. Improved thyroid health with Selenium supplementation also improves female infertility.
Symptoms of Selenium Deficiency
True Selenium is noted as “rare” in the United States but consider that back in 1936, nearly 100 years ago, the US Senate made a statement that “US soils no longer have the nutritional stores for long term health.” Supplementing with a daily supplement makes sense to obtain all the known benefits of this powerhouse trace mineral. Also consider that low levels of this mineral can result in the same symptoms as true deficiency.
Symptoms such as:
- Fatigue and muscle weakness
- Frequent infections
- Hair thinning or loss
- Cognitive fog
- Slow wound healing
Long-term deficiency can lead to more severe issues, such as Keshan disease (a type of cardiomyopathy) or Kashin-Beck disease (a form of osteoarthritis).
Lesser-Known Facts About Selenium
- Soil Variation Matters: The Selenium content of food depends heavily on the soil where it is grown. Areas with Selenium-poor soils, such as parts of China and Europe, report higher rates of deficiency. Fortunately, Colorado, along with Western Nebraska and the Dakotas have high levels of Selenium, so a great reason to buy and support local growers.
- Overdose Risks: While rare, excessive Selenium intake can lead to selenosis, characterized by symptoms like gastrointestinal distress, hair loss, and a metallic taste in the mouth. A recommended dose 200 mcg per day with 400 mcg as a max dose.
- Selenium and Cancer: Preliminary studies suggest that Selenium may reduce the risk of certain cancers, including prostate, lung and breast cancer. Some studies show increasing selenium levels could reduce may cancers by 50%.
Why Supplement with Selenium?
Supplementation ensures consistent intake. Selenium supplement offers a bioavailable form of this essential mineral, ensuring optimal absorption and efficacy.
How Besana Health and Wellness Can Help
At Besana Health and Wellness in Denver, we understand that health is not one-size-fits-all. Our team provides personalized consultations to assess your Selenium levels and design a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs. With access to high-quality supplements like Ortho Molecular Reacted Selenium, we help you achieve and maintain optimal health.
Tips for Incorporating Selenium
- Dietary Sources: Include Selenium-rich foods such as Brazil nuts, seafood (tuna, salmon, shrimp), eggs, and whole grains in your meals.
- Supplementation: Work with a healthcare provider to determine the right dosage. Over-supplementing can be harmful, so it’s essential to get professional guidance.
- Lifestyle Alignment: Pair Selenium intake with a balanced diet rich in other antioxidants for maximum benefit.
The Path to Better Health
Selenium may be a trace mineral, but its impact on health is anything but minor. From bolstering your immune system to supporting thyroid function, preventing cancer and heart health, its benefits are far-reaching. Are you ready to explore the role of Selenium in your wellness journey and discover how a personalized plan from Besana Health and Wellness can help you thrive?
