Selenium is an antioxidant that may protect against many different health issues, from heart disease to immunity issues. It’s available in our diet through a variety of common sources, with Brazil nuts being particularly high in selenium (levels could be high enough to cause toxicity if eaten too often). Selenium is also available in fish and poultry and certain foods are enriched with it.

We only need small amounts of it, but selenium plays an important role in our health (1). It is highly concentrated in thyroid tissue and plays a role in regulating the body’s hormones for our metabolism and growth (2). We included it in our supplement for its possible benefits for the immune system and its potential role in long-term wellbeing. 

Supports timely immune response

When we are exposed to a virus or bacteria that can make us sick, we want our immune system to react as quickly as possible. Low levels of selenium in people have been linked to a decreased immune response (3). This could be possible because selenium may help the growth of a certain type of white blood cell (T-lymphocytes) that protect the body from infection. However, there are many functions of the immune system that benefit from selenium in the body (4), so it’s a good idea for immune health to maintain this important micronutrient.

A powerful antioxidant

As our body carries out its basic functions, some waste products are produced. Free radicals are an example of a waste product that can be harmful to the body’s cells and are linked to a variety of diseases. Antioxidants, like selenium, can bind with free radicals to prevent further damage to cells in our immune system. Selenium is highly concentrated in thyroid gland tissue. One type of free radical that can build up in the body and affect hormone regulation is Reactive Oxygen Species. Selenium helps defend the thyroid from these free radicals.

100 percent of your daily dose

The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of selenium for adults is 55 micrograms (mcg). Future Proof contains 55 mcg of selenium, which is 100 percent of your daily dose.

It is possible to have too much selenium. In high doses, it can cause nausea or diarrhea. In extremely high levels, it can cause hair loss, affect nail growth, and cause nervous system problems.

Disclaimer: It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before you take any type of supplement. And if you experience any negative side effects when you are taking one, contact a healthcare expert immediately.

References

1. Selenium–Fascinating Microelement, Properties and Sources in Food - Retrieved from National Center for Biotechnology Information
2. Selenium and Thyroid Disease: From Pathophysiology to Treatment - Retrieved from National Center for Biotechnology Information
3. Selenium: its role as antioxidant in human health - Retrieved from National Center for Biotechnology Information
4. Selenium: its role as antioxidant in human health - Retrieved from National Center for Biotechnology Information