Selenium

Selenium is an essential trace mineral and is of fundamental importance to human health.

Selenium is one of the constituents of selenoproteins and has structural and enzymic roles. Selenium is best-known for its antioxidant properties and a catalyst for the production of active thyroid hormone.

Selenium is required for the proper performance of the immune system, and is believed to be a key nutrient in counteracting the development of virulence and inhibiting HIV progressing to AIDS.

Selenium is necessary for sperm motility and is believed to reduce the risk of miscarriage.

Selenium deficiency has also been linked to adverse mood states.

The links between selenium deficiency and heart disease remain inconclusive, however, there are links between oxidative stress and inflammation showing the benefits of higher selenium levels.