Selenium

Function of Selenium:
Selenium works as an antioxidant by scavenging damaging particles in the body
known as free radicals. It is also essential for the proper functioning of the immune
system and for the production of prostaglandins (substances that affect blood
pressure and inflammation in the body).

Deficiency of Selenium:
Causes for selenium depletion include: chronic exposure to environmental toxins such
as chemotherapy drugs, radiation, and other toxic medicines. Drinking alcohol and
smoking cigarettes also depletes selenium.

Toxicity (Selenium Overdose):
Taking high doses of selenium causes fatigue, irritability and neurological damage,
arthritis, hair and fingernail loss, garlicky breath or body odor, and gastrointestinal
disorders.

Caution: Eating natural foods that are high in selenium is the safest and healthiest
way to get an adequate supply of the nutrient. Due to risk of toxicity, individuals
should always consult with a knowledgeable health care provider before starting
doses of supplements. Before giving supplements to children, it is recommended that
you first consult with their pediatrician. Also, some supplements may interfere with
medications. If you are taking medication, it is recommended that you consult with
your physician before taking any supplements. All supplements should be kept in
childproof bottles and out of children's reach.

Selenium Food Chart (List of Foods High in Selenium):

Brazil nuts, from selenium-rich soil, 1 ounce ~6 kernels - (544 mcg)
Salmon 3 ounces - (40 mcg)
Halibut 3 ounces - (40 mcg)
Bread, whole wheat, 2 slices - (23 mcg)
Rice, brown, cooked, 1 cup - (19 mcg)
Beef, 3 ounces - (16 mcg)
Chicken, light meat, 3 ounces - (13 mcg)
Milk, skim, 1 cup - (5 mcg)
Walnuts, black, shelled, 1 ounce - (5 mcg)

Sources:

American Dietetic Association: Complete Food And Nutrition Guide (2nd Edition)
Roberta Larson Duyff, MS, RD, FADA, CFCS

Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs and More
Pamela Wartian Smith, MD, MPH

University of Maryland Medical Center - umm.edu

Linus Pauling Institute - oregonstate.edu

Wikipedia The Free Encyclopedia

Eating foods that are high in
selenium can help to prevent
conditions such as impaired
immune system function, viral
infections, and cancer. Foods
high in selenium include: meat,
chicken, fish, brazil nuts, and
brown rice.

What is Selenium?
Selenium is an essential mineral
in small amounts, but can be
toxic in larger amounts.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The content on
this website is for educational purposes only. Please consult with your physician before using natural
remedies and before making any drastic changes to your diet or exercise program.