What is it:
Selenium s a component of the selenocysteine. Selenium has antioxidant properties. Selenium is an essential component of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase. Selenium contributes to efficiency of the immune system and plays a vital role in regulating the effects of thyroid hormone on fat metabolism.
What does it do:
Selenium is a powerful antioxidant mineral and is found in all tissues of the body. It has a protective effect against oxidative damage to body cells, particularly the heart. The body only needs a small amount of Selenium but due to lower than previous levels in soils and foods, deficiencies are increasingly common.
Symptoms of deficiency:
Deficiency may lead to: Cardiomyopathy; Kaschin-Beck disease (affects the cartilage at joints). Selenium deficiency has been linked to a range of serious conditions like cancer, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory diseases and other free radical related problems such as premature ageing.
Overdose/Cautions:
Too much selenium causes selenosis, a condition that in its mildest form can lead to loss of hair, skin and nails. Excessive intake can lead to selenium poisoning.
Natural food sources:
" Egg yolk
Garlic
Seafood
Whole-grain flour
Selenium can also be found in meat and grains depending on the selenium content of the soil where the food is raised."