Selenium is a trace element and antioxidant important for reproduction, thyroid gland function, DNA production, and protecting the body from damage caused by free radicals and from infection.

Sources

Plant: Whole grains, nuts especially Brazil nuts and walnuts

Animal: Fresh and saltwater fish such as tuna cod, red snapper, herring; beef and poultry

NOTE: The amount of selenium in plant foods depends on the amount of selenium in the soil where they were grown. The amount of selenium in animal products depends on the selenium content of the foods that the animals ate. Also, selenium can be destroyed in food processing, so whole, unprocessed foods are the best sources.

« Selenium may interact with medicines and supplements, such as antacids, chemotherapy drugs, corticosteroids, niacin, cholesterol-lowering statin drugs, and birth control pills.

In addition, Selenium supplements are associated with a risk of skin cancer (squamous cell carcinoma), so people at high risk of skin cancer should not take these supplements.