Selenium
Benefits of Selenium
- Hair and nails
- Thyroid function
- Immune system
- Protection of cells from oxidative stress
- Form: L-Selenomethionine
- Food Source: Nuts (especially Brazil nuts), bread, sunflower seeds, brown rice, chickpeas, beans, broccoli, spinach and mushrooms.
What is Selenium?
Selenium is an important mineral with antioxidant activity. This means it is involved in 'scavenging' and neutralising 'free radicals', which are unstable molecules. Selenium works alongside iodine, which contributes to the normal production of thyroid hormones.
What does Selenium do?
Selenium contributes to the normal function of the immune system, to normal spermatogenesis and to the protection of cells from oxidative stress. It also contributes to the maintenance of normal hair and normal nails, and to normal thyroid function.
Along with other vitamins and minerals, selenium has been looked at in research on the role of vitamins and minerals in hair. Researchers have also reviewed selenium supplementation in relation to thyroid function.
Minerals like selenium have also been studied in relation to mood. Researchers have reviewed the evidence on zinc, magnesium and selenium and looked at mineral intakes and mood in US adults.
You may also enjoy reading 'Best foods for hair loss & thinning', 'Ultimate advice for hair loss, from an expert nutritionist', 'Best foods for thyroid health', 'Vitamins for an underactive thyroid', 'Nutritionist's tips for an underactive thyroid' and 'Mental health effects of menopause'.
Zinc
Zinc is essential for the normal functioning of our immune system, and for the health of our hair and skin. Infections, hair loss and white marks on nails are among the signs of a deficiency.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is vital for our immune system, fighting off infections and in the production of white blood cells. It is also essential for healthy skin, vision and eye health.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is vital for our immune health, wound healing and for the health of our skin through its central role in collagen production and supporting blood vessels feeding our skin.
Copper
Copper is an essential nutrient which our body doesn’t produce, so we need to gain it in our diet. It supports a range of functions from our nervous and immune systems to the healthy colour of our hair.
Folate
Folate is required in the synthesis of DNA and the replication of new cells. It is needed in during pregnancy to help prevent neural tube defects in the foetus.
Inulin
Inulin is a gut-friendly fibre that helps friendly, active bacteria in your gut to grow. Inulin is a 'prebiotic', and prebiotics are vital to the health of probiotics.
Iodine
Iodine is an important mineral needed for the production of thyroid hormones, helping maintain the body’s metabolic rate, healthy skin and hair, and is crucial during pregnancy.
L-Glycine
L-Glycine is an amino acid that has a calming and regenerative effect, reducing the time it takes to fall asleep, enhancing sleep quality, and reducing feelings of tiredness during the day.
