Selenium
According to Joe Cohen from Self Hacked, selenium is a mineral that you need in trace amounts for optimal health. It is a crucial nutrient for a robust immune system, a youthful appearance, and healthy cognitive function. (1)
In supplements, there are two versions. One is naturally-occurring and derived from yeast. The other is an amino acid-based version called selenomethionine. Both forms of selenium are easy to absorb.
The best way to get the selenium you need is by eating a healthy and balanced diet. Food sources of selenium include seafood, kidney, liver, wheat germ, bran, tuna, onions, tomatoes, broccoli, garlic, brazil nuts and brown rice.
Selenium may help
- Enhance fertility
- Promote healthy hair and nails
- Support healthy skin
- Fight colds
- Support thyroid function
Benefits
1) It may help with fertility
Selenium promotes spermatogenesis, which means that selenium plays a role in sperm formation. A deficiency may contribute to male infertility.
According to research, selenium is in the sperm mitochondria capsule and may affect how sperm behave. (2)
2) Promotes healthy hair and nails
The mineral helps to promote healthy hair and nails. A selenium deficiency may cause hair loss, dandruff and brittle nails.
3) Supports healthy skin
Selenium is an antioxidant that helps to protect cells from free radicals. It may reduce the degradation of skin collagen and the associated signs of premature ageing.
4) It may help to fight colds
The antioxidant properties of selenium support immune system function. It may help individuals fight off colds, flu and other infections.
5) Supports thyroid function
Selenium promotes healthy thyroid function. The majority of the selenium in your body is in your thyroid gland. (3)
Selenium works well with
- Vitamin A and E as they are also antioxidants
- Cherry extract for antioxidant support
- Vitamin C for immune support and protection from oxidative stress
Some things to consider
Side effects are infrequent, but high doses of selenium can cause dizziness, nausea, brittle fingernails, and hair loss.
Resources
last accessed online 20/04/2020
- https://selfhacked.com/blog/health-benefits-selenium/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8659343
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5307254/
