Selenio

Selenium is an essential trace element that the body needs in small quantities to carry out various physiological functions. As the body cannot produce it, it must be obtained through the diet.

This mineral occurs naturally in various foods and can also be found in food supplements. The amount required is small, so it is important to avoid excessive intake through supplements.

Selenium plays a part in various bodily processes and contributes to several normal functions. Its main recognised nutritional properties include:

• It contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system.
• It contributes to the normal functioning of the thyroid.
• It helps protect cells against oxidative damage.
• It contributes to the normal maintenance of hair.
• It contributes to the normal maintenance of nails.
• Contributes to normal spermatogenesis.

The benefits of selenium are mainly linked to its role in various physiological functions. An adequate intake helps maintain the levels required for the body to carry out these functions normally.

One of its best-known properties is its role in protecting cells against oxidative stress. It also plays a part in the normal functioning of the immune system and the thyroid.

Selenium contributes to the normal functioning of the thyroid. This mineral forms part of various selenoproteins involved in physiological processes related to thyroid hormones.

This does not mean that taking selenium supplements alone treats thyroid disorders. If you have a thyroid disorder or are taking specific medication, consult your doctor before taking a dietary supplement.

Selenium helps protect cells against oxidative damage. For this reason, it is commonly found in dietary supplements that combine various vitamins, minerals and other nutrients.

It may, for example, be combined with zinc, vitamin C or vitamin E in formulations designed to supplement a balanced diet.

Another of selenium’s nutritional functions is its contribution to the normal functioning of the immune system. A varied diet usually provides this mineral through a range of foods.

Supplements can be used to top up intake where necessary, always adhering to the recommended amounts and avoiding combining several products that provide high doses of the same nutrient.

Selenium helps maintain hair and nails in a healthy condition. For this reason, it is often found as an ingredient in some supplements designed for the nutritional care of hair and nails.

However, hair loss or significant changes to the nails can have many causes. If these symptoms appear persistently or suddenly, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Selenium supplements are available in different concentrations and forms. Among the most common forms are:

• Selenium capsules.
• Selenium tablets.
• Selenium and zinc supplements.
• Multivitamins and multiminerals containing selenium.
• Antioxidant formulas containing vitamins and minerals.

Before choosing a product, check the amount of selenium provided per daily dose and whether you are already taking other supplements containing this mineral.

To find out how to take selenium, you should follow the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of each supplement. The concentration can vary considerably between products, so you should not assume that they all require the same amount or frequency.

Do not exceed the expressly recommended daily dose and remember that food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a balanced diet.

Excessive and prolonged consumption of selenium can cause adverse effects. For this reason, it is not advisable to combine several selenium supplements without first checking the amounts provided by each one.

If you have any doubts about the dose, are taking several supplements at the same time, or need to supplement your diet over prolonged periods, consult a doctor, pharmacist or dietitian-nutritionist.

At Farmaciasdirect, you can buy selenium supplements online in various formats and formulations from specialist brands. Compare their composition and concentration to choose the option that best suits your nutritional needs.

Find selenium in capsules, tablets and combination supplements, with the assurance of an online pharmacy and access to pharmaceutical advice. Get your selenium supplements at the best price at Farmaciasdirect.