| Functions |
- Reduces risk of heart disease, cancer, allergies and inflammation
- Supports DNA repair
- Component of anti-oxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase and works with Vit E in preventing free-radical damage to cell membranes
- Metabolic support – needed by liver for conversion of thyroid hormone T4 to T3
|
| Source and function notes |
- Soil quality and mineral content a greater issue for this mineral
- Best sources from meats and seafood, wholegrains and eggs
|
| Vegetable sources |
Red Swiss chard; turnips; garlic; Mushrooms; radishes, green beans; Onion; Carrots; Cabbage |
| Fruit sources |
Orange juice, Grape juice, Orange |
| Nut and seed sources |
Brazil nuts, Pecans, Hazelnuts, Almonds |
| Absorption factors |
|
| Spice and herb sources |
|
| Deficiency factors |
- Increase risk of
- Cancer and Cardiovascular disease
- Inflammatory diseases (e.g. asthma)
- Conditions associated with increased free-radical damage: e.g. premature aging and cataract formation
|
| Toxicity and dangers |
Can be toxic: excess selenium intake causes liver problems due to interference with sulfur enzyme activity and sulphur systems as well as impaired bone and tooth growth |
