Mineral Selenium

There are 16 essential minerals that the body needs and they are broken into two types: macro and trace. Minerals are inorganic substances (meaning they contain no carbon) that are required for normal cell function, growth and development. Macrominerals are needed by the body in large doses. Trace minerals are only needed by the body in small quantities.

SELENIUM

  • Trace mineral

Best plant food sources

  • Fruits: bananas, peaches

  • Vegetables: garlic, green peas, mushrooms, potatoes, spinach

  • Grains: enriched noodles, oatmeal, rice, whole grains

  • Legumes: baked beans, lentils

  • Nuts/seeds: Brazil nuts, cashews

Function in the body

  • Antioxidant

  • Regulates thyroid hormones

  • Works with Vitamin E

Health benefits

  • May reduce the risk of cancer (colorectal, prostate, lung, bladder, skin, esophageal and gastric)

  • Reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease

  • Reduces cognitive decline with age

  • Lowers risk of thyroid disease in women

Symptoms of deficiency

  • Male infertility

Groups at risk of being deficient

  • People undergoing kidney dialysis

  • People with HIV

Excess intake

  • Breath smells like garlic

  • Metallic taste in the mouth

  • Hair and nail loss