Check out the most important selenium benefits, like supporting antioxidant and immune function, according to an RD.

Whew, thats a mouthful.

Heres everything you better know about this super mineral.

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The Top Health Benefits of Selenium

1.

It helps antioxidants do their job.

Its important for a healthy immune system.

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All of these parts play an important role in protecting your body from infection and disease.

Take that, cold season.

It may boost thyroid health.

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Selenium helps your bodymetabolize thyroid hormones, which helpregulate your metabolism, digestive function, and mood.

Clinical research shows that selenium taken in combination with thyroid medication helps tolower autoimmune thyroid antibodies, says Samuels.

She says the mineral might also help improve postpartum thyroid function.

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It might help fight cancer.

Remember how selenium helps antioxidants do their job?

That may translate into some cancer-fighting benefits, too.

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She also notesone studywhich found that selenium may decrease cancer risk and overall mortality in men.

What are the signs of selenium deficiency?

If youre experiencing any of these symptoms, its important to speak with your healthcare provider.

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What foods are high in selenium?

Its Amazing How Its All Connected.

While selenium supplements are available, experts always encourage the acquisition of your nutrients through food.

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While its important to consume enough selenium, its also important not to consume too much, says Middleberg.

Is there such a thing as too much selenium?

In a word, yes.

Too much selenium can definitely lead to selenium toxicity which means that one should be careful with supplementation.

And if you suffer from an autoimmune disease, be careful.

Another thing to be wary of?

Adverse effects on male fertility.

How much selenium you need in a day is dependent on your lifestyle and diet.

A separate selenium supplement probably isnt necessary for most people unless their doctor recommends it.

Is selenium good to take daily?

This could change, however, based on a number of health conditions.

Some communities with low levels of selenium in their soil may benefit from more to prevent selenium deficiency.

FAQs About the Benefits of Selenium

Who should not take selenium?

Pregnant or breastfeeding people should speak with their healthcare provider to determine the appropriate amount of selenium to consume.

Children should not take selenium supplements unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider, according to theMayo Clinic.

Some people may besensitive to seleniumand may experience symptoms such as rash, itching, orgastrointestinal upset.

Some medications can interact with selenium, the Mayo clinic shares, including blood thinners and cholesterol-lowering medications.

If you are taking any medications, speak with your healthcare provider before taking selenium supplements.

Does selenium include better help you sleep?

There are some supplements and nutrients that tout sleep benefits, like magnesium.

Magnesium does, in fact, help you sleep.

However, getting all of your essential nutrients is important and can secondarily support quality sleep.

Therefore, getting enough selenium may help combat fatigue and promote better sleep.

Can you take zinc and selenium together?

Overall, selenium, when consumed at the right amount, has a plethora of benefits.

Kudos to you for doing more research on how to have the healthiest diet for your body.

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