What is selenium?
Selenium may not be the first nutrient you think about, but this tiny trace mineral plays a surprisingly powerful role in your overall health. Even though your body needs only a small amount, selenium supports important functions that help you stay energised, protected, and well balanced.
It’s naturally found in soil, water, and foods like Brazil nuts, fish, seafood, eggs, whole grains, and meat. Since your body cannot produce selenium, you must get it through your diet or supplements. Despite its small requirement, selenium is essential for several vital processes.
Why Selenium Matters
Selenium is best known for its strong antioxidant properties, protecting your cells from oxidative stress. Every day, your body is exposed to free radicals from stress, pollution, unhealthy food, or even normal metabolism. Selenium helps neutralise these harmful molecules, keeping your cells healthier.
Here are some of key benefits of selenium:
a) Antioxidant support: Selenium shields the cells from oxidative damage. This helps slow down cellular ageing and supports long-term wellness.
b) Immune function: Adequate selenium levels help strengthen the body’s natural defences and support better recovery during periods of low immunity.
c) Thyroid health: The thyroid gland relies on selenium to produce and regulate hormones. Selenium assists in converting inactive thyroid hormone (T4) into its active form (T3), which is essential for metabolism, energy balance, and overall hormonal function.
d) Heart health: By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, selenium may help maintain healthy blood vessels and support overall cardiovascular wellness.
e) Fertility: Selenium supports reproductive health in both men and women. In men, it is involved in healthy sperm formation. In women, it supports proper thyroid function, which is closely linked to fertility.
Keep Your Selenium in Check
Selenium may be a small mineral, but its impact on your health is significant. From supporting your immune system and thyroid to protecting your cells from everyday stress, it plays a key role in keeping your body balanced. With the right intake through food or supplements, you can easily give your body the boost it needs. Taking care of your selenium levels is a simple step that supports your overall wellness in the long run.
