A trace mineral that is essential to good health but required only in tiny amounts; it is incorporated into proteins to make selenoproteins, which are important antioxidant enzymes. It is found in avocado, brazil nut, lentils, sunflower seeds, tomato, whole grain cereals, seaweed, seafood and meat.
An element with the atomic symbol Se, atomic number 34, and atomic weight 78.96. It is an essential micronutrient for mammals and other animals but is toxic in large amounts. Selenium protects intracellular structures against oxidative damage. It is an essential component of glutathione peroxidase.
A non-metallic trace element.
An essential mineral needed for the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase. This is important to the suppression of oxygen free radicals. Excess selenium intakes are associated with diabetes and elevated blood lipids.
Selenium is a micromineral that is often considered an antioxidant nutrient. Diets richest in selenium are those of individuals who consume foods from animals that graze in areas with selenium-replete soil. Many regions of China and New Zealand are notorious for having low levels of soil selenium and thus increased risk for selenium deficiency. The roles of selenium in metabolism are centered around its functions with a variety of proteins, often referred to as selenoproteins. Glutathione peroxidase is a key selenoprotein involved in protecting against oxidative damage. Selenium supplementation in athletes has not been extensively studied, but the little available data indicate no effect on exercise performance in rats. The entry for antioxidants describes the relationships among the oxidative stress of exercise, dietary antioxidants, and the body’s antioxidant defenses as well as the potential role for supplementation of antioxidant nutrients.
A trace mineral found in soil and food. Selenium is an essential mineral believed to be closely associated with vitamin E. Selenium is also one of the antioxidants that protect cells from certain chemical reactions associated with aging, heart disease, and cancer. It is thought to stimulate the formation of antibodies in response to vaccines, and it improves the production of s perm and sperm motility.
A chemical element resembling sulfur; atomic weight 78.96; atomic number 34. It is considered an essential trace element in the diet. Toxicity can occur when an excessive amount is ingested, characterized by a sour breath odor, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, restlessness.
Within the human body, there exists a vital mineral that is required in minute quantities. However, it is crucial to note that excessive amounts of this mineral can be highly toxic.
A minor element that could contribute to maintaining the flexibility of bodily tissues. The most abundant dietary sources include meat, fish, whole grains, and dairy products.