Selenium: What Deficiency and Excess Indicate in the Body and Sources

22 Aug 2024

Seleniu ce indica deficienta si excesul in organism si surse din care il putem lua cover

An optimal state of health consists of the balance of all nutrients in our body that work to keep it functioning correctly. As certain habits or activities can lead to imbalances, disorders may occur at the level of these elements. This is when we start feeling unwell and wonder what the reason is.

One of the elements involved in key processes in our body is selenium. It plays not one, but several vital roles, even though it is less known than others. What is it? It is an essential mineral for the human body, having several functions. One of the most important, affecting both women and men, is fertility.

Although selenium, and especially supplements based on this nutrient, are talked about quite a lot, it is not yet precisely known what a deficiency or excess of it indicates. This aspect, as well as others, such as the natural sources from which it can be obtained, are discussed in this article. We will also discover the benefits it brings to our body.

Selenium – Main Functions in the Body

What is selenium? It is one of the essential minerals for our body. This also means that it is not organically synthesized, but assimilated from external sources. Although our body’s need for it is small, it does not mean that it is not very important for the organism. On the contrary, the correct amount of it plays very important roles in the body.

Roles of Selenium in the Body

The largest amount of selenium in the body is found in the thyroid gland. Thus, it is directly responsible for the processes that take place at its level.

Besides this function, this element:

is part of antioxidant enzyme cells, having the role of repairing tissues;
also contributes to the proper functioning of cognitive function;
helps in the proper functioning of the immune system;
is responsible for the fertility of women and men;
also helps in the metabolism of thyroid hormones, T3 and T4;
plays an important role in DNA synthesis.

Given the important functions of selenium, we also need to know where we get it from. Because it is not found naturally in the body, we have two ways to assimilate it: diet and supplements. Since we cannot strictly control our diet, dietary supplements like Immunity Formula can help us. As its name suggests, these capsules support the proper functioning of the immune system and more. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, preventing infections. In combination with zinc and other vitamins, it is a product we can rely on for optimal health.

Immunity Formula is the supplement we need for a strong and resilient body in all seasons, especially in the cold ones. Also, along with vitamins A, C, and E, it contributes to a feeling of well-being throughout the day.

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Selenium Deficiency and Excess in the Body

Many processes in our body rely on the natural selenium we obtain from various sources. Therefore, a deficiency or excess of it in the body can lead to serious imbalances. Firstly, thyroid function will be affected. Also, a deficiency or surplus of this element means certain clinical signs sent by our body. Fortunately, both can be corrected either by taking supplements or by consuming foods containing this mineral.

Selenium Deficiency and Its Symptoms

Selenium deficiency in the body can manifest in several ways. These depend mainly on two factors: the extent of the deficiency and how long it has been present. The main symptoms we may experience are:

Imbalances in the Immune System.

these manifest as increased susceptibility to viruses and bacteria, as well as slow recovery after certain illnesses.

Thyroid Disorders

which will lead to the onset of diseases such as hypothyroidism. When its function is diminished, another condition that can develop is autoimmune thyroiditis, which is equally serious.

Deficiencies in Cognitive Function

which can manifest as memory loss and impaired concentration. Studies are still being conducted on the connection between selenium deficiency and these symptoms.

Joint and Muscle Problems.

a lack of selenium in the body can lead to joint pain, stiffness, and muscle weakness.

Dermatological Conditions.

the skin can become sensitive, dry, and flaky due to a lack of selenium in the body, especially in women. These symptoms are also found in thyroid diseases.

Cardiovascular Conditions.

as selenium protects blood vessels and the heart, a deficiency of it can lead to an increased risk of heart disease.

However, it is very important to know that these symptoms can also be associated with other deficiencies. Therefore, it is advisable to undergo a series of tests to find out if a lack of selenium is the cause.

Not only selenium deficiency can cause certain symptoms, but also its excess.

Selenium Excess in the Body

Although it is an essential element in the body, selenium is needed in very small quantities. Therefore, its excess is not uncommon.

Among the symptoms we may experience in such cases are:

dermatitis or other skin conditions;
hair loss and brittle nails;
bad breath, especially a garlic-like odor;
liver insufficiency;
cavities despite proper oral hygiene;
nervous system disorders;
muscle pain and cramps.

Selenium poisoning is called selenosis, and its treatment is done by stopping exposure to this element.

When is it considered that we might suffer from selenosis? When the recommended dose exceeds 600 – 800 micrograms (mcg) per day in adults.

Selenium and the Recommended Daily Dose

What we know about selenium is that we do not need a large amount in the body for it to perform its functions. Therefore, the optimal daily dose is quite small. Generally, for an adult, 55 micrograms are sufficient.

Here is the situation by age and sex:

for children aged 0 to 6 months, the daily requirement is 15 mcg;
for those aged 1 to 3 years, the recommended daily dose is 20 mcg;
for children aged 4 to 8 years, the optimal daily dose should not exceed 30 mcg;
for children aged 9 to 13 years, the necessary daily intake of selenium is 40 mcg;
for adolescents aged 14 and over, a dose of 55 mcg per day is recommended;
for adult women and men, the necessary daily dose is also 55 mcg.

Increased doses are needed for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers, 60 mcg and 70 mcg per day, respectively.

In case of selenium deficiency or excess, doses will be adjusted to avoid various health problems.

What are the best sources of selenium? Food, but supplements can also be viable solutions when recommended by a doctor, following blood tests.

Selenium and Its Sources

The two most important sources of selenium are food and supplements. The latter may be recommended by a doctor, following blood tests. Otherwise, when deficiencies are minor, an adequate diet can supplement the necessary intake to maintain our well-being.

Foods Containing Selenium

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There are several groups of selenium-rich foods. A less known fact is that for vegetables, for example, the amount of this mineral depends on the soil in which they were grown.

Here, then, are the best food sources of organic or natural selenium:

oilseeds, including various types of nuts (among all, Brazil nuts are the richest in selenium);
fish, such as tuna and sardines, as well as seafood are rich in selenium and zinc;
beef is also rich in zinc and selenium;
chicken meat has an optimal selenium content;
cereals, such as oats, rice, and even pasta have a high selenium content;
eggs are also a good source of this macroelement, with one egg covering up to 28% of the daily selenium requirement;
beans, which, in addition to selenium, also contain fiber, contributing to the health of the digestive tract.

Many people wonder when to take selenium, more precisely whether in the morning or evening. When it comes to supplements, they can be taken at any time of the day.

Selenium and its Assimilation from Supplements

Selenium-based dietary supplements can be consumed in tablet form. These are prescribed by a doctor when a deficiency of this element is detected. For this purpose, we need a blood test. Depending on the reference values based on age, products can be prescribed to help the body recover. Also, the maximum dose of selenium assimilated from supplements in a day should not exceed 200 mcg.

Selenium – Benefits and Contraindications

Selenium has many benefits for the body. Here are just a few of them:

Selenium is a good antioxidant.

Our cells deteriorate as we age. However, there are also habits that can lead to their “death” faster, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, prolonged sun exposure. Selenium is an antioxidant that reduces oxidative stress, helping cells to live longer.

Selenium has many benefits for the thyroid.

Many people wonder if organic selenium can cause weight loss or gain, attributing weight fluctuations to it. However, thyroid conditions are what lead to weight gain or loss. This element protects the thyroid gland from oxidative stress, but is also involved in supporting hormone production.

Selenium protects the heart.

Natural selenium also helps prevent cardiovascular diseases. One of its main benefits for the body is that it reduces inflammatory markers. Also, the optimal amount of this element increases the level of glutathione peroxidase, another important antioxidant. Together, oxidative stress and inflammation in the body can cause atherosclerosis.

Selenium contributes to brain health.

Oxidative stress can also destroy nerve cells, and selenium, through its antioxidant role, will reduce it. Among the diseases that can be prevented with the help of sufficient intake of this element are Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis, which are irreversible.

In addition to these benefits, we must be careful not to ingest or be exposed to too much selenium.

Selenium Contraindications

Although cases of selenium poisoning are quite rare, this is one of the main contraindications of high consumption. Besides exposure, it is advisable to stop using supplements (if they have been recommended) in the following cases:

allergy to chalcogen minerals, to which selenium, sulfur, and tellurium belong;
kidney problems, as overdose can occur if the kidneys cannot eliminate the excess;
upcoming surgeries, as selenium can increase the risk of bleeding, so its administration should be stopped a few days before surgery;
interactions with other medications, including immunosuppressants, anticoagulants, and medications for thyroid conditions.

In conclusion, what is selenium? It is a mineral found in quite small quantities in the body. The highest concentration is in the thyroid gland. Therefore, it is essential for its proper functioning. It also has other equally important roles, such as supporting the immune system and ensuring the fertility of men and women. Natural or organic selenium can be assimilated from food or supplements. For the correct dose, we must pay attention to both its deficiency and excess in the body, as both can have quite serious effects. Correcting severe deficiency or surplus can begin after a blood test and the establishment of a protocol by the attending physician.

References:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006306100820268

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/selenium-benefits

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482260/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4288282/