Selenium: What Is Its Role in the Body?

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Selenium belongs to micronutrients: these are crucial substances for a good metabolism, but the body needs them in much smaller amounts than vitamins and macronutrients (proteins, fats, and carbohydrates).
Selenium is involved in the biosynthesis of about 25 antioxidants that protect cells from free radicals, and promotes the proper absorption of iodine (the key component of thyroid hormones). A sufficient amount of this element reduces the risk of neoplasms and osteoarthritis as well as boosts the immune and hormonal systems.
Most selenium is found in Brazil nuts, seafood, wild fish (grown in natural conditions), soy, broccoli, eggs, and meat.
The necessary daily norm of this micronutrient for an adult is 55 mcg.
However, the body does not absorb all the selenium that comes with food, so when taking it as a dietary supplement, the recommended dosage varies from 50 to 200 mcg/day.
Be careful, though! Selenium is toxic in large doses (400 mcg/day).

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