FOOD SOURCES:Foods containing good levels of selenium are Brazil nuts, salmon, meat, wheat, sesame seeds and sunflower seeds but levels depend on soil selenium content.
Certain countries such as New Zealand and China have low levels selenium in their soil while other areas, such as USA, are believed to have significantly higher levels of this mineral.
USES:
Selenium is an important component of glutathione peroxidise a powerful antioxidant enzyme that helps reduce levels of damaging free-radicals.
High levels of free-radicals can damage cells and may increase the risk of certain cancers. Selenium-containing glutathione peroxidise also helps the liver eliminate toxins and may regulate inflammation.
Selenium is part of the enzyme that activates thyroid hormones, which regulate body growth and development as well as metabolism.
Selenium is particularly important in male reproductive function since research shows that deficiency may lead to reduced sperm production.