Selenium

Selenium is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in immune system function. It works by activating enzymes that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals – in a similar way to NAC – which are harmful molecules that can damage cells and contribute to various diseases.

In addition to its antioxidant properties, selenium also helps regulate the immune response by supporting the production and function of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections and diseases.

Selenium offers many benefits, some of which include:

Acts as an antioxidant to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Supports immune system function by regulating the production and function of white blood cells.
May help reduce the risk of certain infections, such as viral infections and pneumonia.
Plays a crucial role in thyroid hormone metabolism and helps regulate thyroid function.
May help improve fertility in both men and women by supporting sperm motility and reducing oxidative stress in the reproductive system.
Helps maintain healthy hair and nails by supporting the production of keratin, a protein that makes up hair and nails.
May have anti-inflammatory effects and help reduce chronic inflammation in the body.
May reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, such as prostate cancer and colorectal cancer.
May help improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
May help improve heart health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the cardiovascular system.

If You Are Deficient in Selenium..

A deficiency in selenium can have negative effects on the body. Some of the consequences of selenium deficiency include:

Weakness and fatigue: Selenium is necessary for the proper functioning of muscles, and a deficiency can lead to muscle weakness and fatigue.
Increased risk of infections: Selenium is important for immune system function, and a deficiency can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of infections.
Poor thyroid function: Selenium is essential for the production and metabolism of thyroid hormones, and a deficiency can lead to thyroid problems such as hypothyroidism.
Infertility: Selenium plays a role in reproductive health, and a deficiency can lead to fertility problems in both men and women.
Heart problems: Selenium helps protect against oxidative stress and inflammation in the cardiovascular system, and a deficiency can increase the risk of heart disease.
Cognitive decline: Selenium is important for brain health, and a deficiency can contribute to cognitive decline and dementia.
Other symptoms: Selenium deficiency can also cause other symptoms such as hair loss, nail discoloration, and skin problems.

Warnings Releated with Selenium Consumption

While selenium supplementation can be beneficial for people who are deficient, there can be potential risks and side effects associated with taking too much.

One of the most significant concerns associated with selenium supplementation is the risk of selenium toxicity. Consuming too much selenium can lead to toxicity, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, hair loss, and neurological problems.

In addition, selenium supplements may interact with certain medications, such as anticoagulants and chemotherapy drugs, and can interfere with medical tests such as those used to measure blood glucose levels.

Finally, pregnant women should be cautious about taking high doses of selenium supplements, as there is some evidence that excessive selenium intake during pregnancy may increase the risk of birth defects in the fetus.