Selenium

Selenium is a very important mineral for our organism, but it is only necessary in very small quantities. That is why it is included in the group of microminerals, being also a mineral classified as essential, since it intervenes and interacts in many of the functions and physical and chemical processes that occur within our body. Currently, several studies are being carried out on this nutrient to evaluate its effects in the prevention of different types of cancers. However, its supplementation is not recommended, being the food source the safest for the acquisition of this mineral.

During the development of this guide, we will be going deeper into this important subject. To do so, we will review some of the most important functions that selenium fulfills in our body, the recommended amounts of this nutrient for our health, the sources from which we can acquire it and the harm to our body of consuming it in excess.

General benefits of selenium

The benefits of selenium for our health are wide-ranging. This mineral actively participates in the production of proteins that act as antioxidant enzymes. These enzymes are extremely important in preventing damage to our cellular structures. Some of its properties have been related to the protection of our body against the effects of various toxins.

As mentioned above, selenium could be useful in the treatment of various cancers, although further studies are still needed to measure concrete results in this regard.

How to obtain selenium?

Selenium, as a trace element, can be satisfied in its daily requirements in a simple way, through the intake of balanced and nutritionally rich meals. This is a very positive factor, since, as we have mentioned, external selenium supplementation is not recommended for our health. There are many and varied types of foods rich in this nutrient, among some of those that present the best index for its acquisition are: seafood, fish, red meat, liver, chicken, eggs, garlic, wheat, yeast, cereals and breads enriched with this nutrient, among others.

Adequate selenium intake

It is important to adjust our consumption of this mineral to the amounts required by our body. The excess of this nutrient in our body can produce a phenomenon known as selenosis. Selenosis causes, among other effects, nervous disorders that result in hair loss and deterioration of nails, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, general discomfort, among others. If any of these effects appear, it is advisable to see a doctor to evaluate the symptoms and consider ou