Selenium

1. Class of Mineral:
   • Type of mineral (e.g. metallic etc): Trace mineral, metalloid
   • Alkalizing or acidifying? Alkalizing.

2. How the Body Utilizes the mineral:
   • Selenium is an essential trace mineral that functions as a component of various enzymes called seleno-proteins.
   • These proteins play crucial roles in reproduction, thyroid hormone metabolism, DNA synthesis, and protection from oxidative damage and infection.

3. Mineral Supplement Dosage:
   • RDA: The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for selenium is 55 mcg for adults.
   • Typical Dietary Intake: The average daily intake of selenium in the United States is about 93 mcg for men and 67 mcg for women.
   • Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL): The tolerable upper intake level (UL) for selenium is 400 mcg per day for adults.

4. Symptoms of a shortage of the mineral:

Selenium deficiency is rare in healthy individuals, but it may occur in people with certain medical conditions or those who undergo total parenteral nutrition.

Symptoms of selenium deficiency include:

1. • Fatigue
   • Muscle weakness
   • Disorders of the nervous system
   • Difficulty with fertility

5. Symptoms of too much of the mineral:

Selenium toxicity can occur with long-term intake of high doses of selenium supplements. Symptoms of selenium toxicity include:

1. • Garlic odour on breath
   • Metallic taste in the mouth
   • Nausea
   • Diarrhoea
   • Skin rash
   • Hair and nail loss
   • Mild nerve damage

6. Mineral supplement Forms
   • Selenomethionine (most absorbable)
   • Sodium selenite
   • Sodium Selenate
   • Selenium-enriched yeast

7. Various food sources for the mineral:
   • Brazil nuts
   • Seafood (tuna, sardines, shrimp)
   • Meat (beef, poultry, pork)
   • Eggs
   • Grains (rice, wheat, barley)
   • Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, soybeans)
   • Dairy products (milk, cheese)

8. How to take the mineral:
   • Meal Timing: Selenium can be taken with meals, but it is best absorbed when taken on an empty stomach.
   • Time of Day: Selenium supplements can be taken at any time of day, but it is generally recommended to take them in the morning or evening.
   • Other: Selenium supplements should be taken with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially if you have a history of kidney disease or are taking other medications.

9. Interactions:
   • Positive Interactions
     • Vitamins and minerals: Selenium works synergistically with vitamin E, vitamin C, and other antioxidants to protect cells from damage.
     • Medication: Selenium may interact with certain medications, such as cisplatin, a chemotherapy drug. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before taking selenium supplements if you are on any medications.
     • Other: Selenium may also work synergistically with other trace minerals, such as zinc and copper, to support overall health.

• • Negative Interactions:
    • Vitamins and minerals: High doses of selenium may interfere with the absorption of other minerals, such as zinc and copper.
    • Medication: Selenium supplements may interact with certain medications, such as anticoagulants and statins. Consult with a healthcare professional before taking selenium supplements if you are on any medications.
    • Other: Long-term intake of high doses of selenium may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and prostate cancer.

10. Contraindications and Risks:
    • Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult with a healthcare professional before taking selenium supplements.
    • People with a history of kidney disease or those undergoing dialysis should avoid selenium supplements, as they may accumulate toxic levels of selenium in the body