Selenium is present in the human body in many organs; it is involved in the functioning of most systems that support many vital processes in the endocrine, immune and reproductive systems. This element strengthens natural protective functions and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In combination with vitamin E, selenium protects the body from free radicals and ensures normal cell growth.
The benefits of selenium in the body
The benefits of selenium for the human body are primarily associated with the antioxidant properties of the natural element. Its combination with vitamin E is especially effective, since in this case the number of free radicals is significantly reduced. This provides a healing and rejuvenating effect, and also has an anti-cancer effect.
Selenium is involved in many other important processes in the human body. Thanks to him:
- The production of thyroid hormones increases, which helps stabilize metabolic processes, promotes weight loss, improves the condition of the skin, hair and nails, slows down the aging process, etc.
- The risks of developing atherosclerosis are reduced, and additional protection of the heart and blood vessels is provided.
- Proper cell division and renewal is supported.
- The functioning of the pancreas is normalized.
- Accelerates tissue restoration after injury or various diseases.
With a sufficient amount of selenium in the body, it is possible to maintain visual acuity. In addition, the element provides protection against heavy metal salts and allows for faster removal of toxins. Selenium is important for the full absorption of vitamin C, which plays an important role in maintaining immunity.
This microelement is important for a woman’s health. It affects many physiological processes in the body. It normalizes the menstrual cycle and stabilizes the psycho-emotional state. When there is enough of it in a woman’s body, the time of menopause is delayed.
TOP 6 single drugs for adults
VITGID compiled a rating of drugs containing selenium based on the cost of 1 serving, popularity and customer reviews.
No. 6 Nature's Way – Selenium
Nature's Way, Selenium, 200 mcg, 100 Capsules
★★★★★
505 rub.
More details
Cost of 1 serving - 6.85 RUR
General characteristics:
- country of origin – USA;
- active ingredient – L-selenomethionine;
- package volume – 100 capsules;
- required amount per day – 1 capsule.
Each serving contains 200 mcg of selenium in an easily digestible form, cellulose and gelatin.
Pros:
- A single dose is sufficient;
- without yeast.
Minuses:
- not suitable for vegans;
- has a strong specific smell.
No. 5 Solgar – Yeast-free selenium
Solgar, Selenium, Yeast Free, 100 mcg, 100 Tablets
★★★★★
529 rub.
More details
Cost of 1 serving - 5.17 ₽
General characteristics:
- country of origin – USA;
- active ingredient – L-selenomethionine;
- packaging volume – 100 tablets;
- required amount per day – 1-2 tablets.
The composition includes selenium (100 mcg), dicalcium phosphate, microcrystalline cellulose, silicon dioxide, vegetable magnesium stearate. Is a kosher, gluten-free product.
Pros:
- organic form of selenium.
Minuses:
- unpleasant smell.
No. 4 VIS – Turamin Selenium
Turamine Selenium capsules 90 pcs.
from 387 ₽
More details
Cost of 1 serving - 4.29 ₽
General characteristics:
- country of origin – Russian Federation;
- active ingredient – selexen;
- package volume – 90 capsules;
- required amount per day – 1-2 capsules.
The drug contains 75 mcg of selenium and microcrystalline cellulose.
Pros:
- organic form of microelement;
- The capsules are tasteless and odorless.
Minuses:
- contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation.
#3 Be healthy! – Selenium forte
Be healthy! Selenium forte, tablets 105 mg, 100 pcs.
from 387 ₽
More details
Cost of 1 serving - 3.87 ₽
General characteristics:
- country of origin – Russian Federation;
- active ingredient – selenomethionine;
- packaging volume – 100 tablets;
- required amount per day – 1 tablet.
Contains 100 mcg of selenium, cellulose, talc, magnesium stearate, titanium dioxide, silicon dioxide, popylene glycol.
Pros:
- one of the most affordable drugs.
Minuses:
- contains titanium dioxide (there is evidence of its toxicity).
#2 Now Foods – Selenium
Now Foods, Selenium, 100 mcg, 100 Tablets
★★★★★
339 rub.
More details
Cost of 1 serving - 2.98 RUR
General characteristics:
- country of origin – USA;
- active ingredient – L-selenomethionine;
- packaging volume – 100, 250 tablets;
- required amount per day – 1-2 tablets.
In addition to 100 mcg of selenium, the tablets contain stearic acid and magnesium stearate.
Pros:
- microelement in organic form.
Minuses:
- not suitable for children;
- strong smell.
No. 1 DIODE – Selenium-active
Selenium-active tab. 250mg n60
from 151 ₽
More details
Cost of 1 serving - 2.80 RUR
General characteristics:
- country of origin – Russian Federation;
- active ingredients – Selexen, vitamin C;
- packaging volume – 30, 60 tablets;
- required amount per day – 1 tablet.
One tablet contains 50 mg of selenium in organic form and 50 mg of ascorbic acid.
Pros:
- affordable price;
- organic selenium is well absorbed.
Minuses:
- low dosage.
Excess selenium
As a rule, an increased amount of this element is observed when selenium metabolism is impaired. Also, its excess in the body can be observed in people involved in enterprises in certain areas: oil refining, foundry, electronics, etc. The risks increase for those who live in places with a high content of the mineral in the soil. An overdose cannot occur when consuming food.
With an excess of selenium in the body, a metallic taste appears in the mouth, disturbances in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract occur, and fatigue and irritability develop. If the amount of an element in the body is not brought to standard levels, then other signs will appear:
- Brittle nails.
- Stains on teeth.
- Rash on the skin.
- Hair loss.
The best manufacturers
When choosing a drug, preference should be given to manufacturers who have a GMP certificate - this means that the manufacturer complies with the requirements of good manufacturing practice. Domestic medicines must be produced in accordance with the national GOST standard.
The best US manufacturers: Now Foods, Solgar, Nature's Way, Life Extension, California Gold Nutrition, 21st Century, Dr. Mercola, Jarrow Formulas, Nutricology, Solaray . Vitabiotics (Great Britain), Queisser Pharma (Germany), VIS (Russian Federation), WTF (Russian Federation) are also popular.
Selenium deficiency
Selenium deficiency occurs for various reasons. Most often this is due to unfavorable environmental conditions, heavy physical activity, and abuse of processed foods and sweets.
Deviations from standard indicators in a downward direction have a negative impact on a person’s overall well-being. There is a feeling of constant fatigue, and performance decreases. If the amount of this element is insufficient, the absorption of vitamin E worsens, which increases the risk of developing various diseases. The following signs indicate selenium deficiency:
- Muscle weakness.
- Constant fatigue.
- Hair loss.
- Decreased visual acuity.
- Weight gain.
- Cramps.
In severe cases, the immune system is weakened, which leads to an increased risk of developing serious diseases. Long-term selenium deficiency can cause hormonal disorders, infertility in men and women, and accelerate the aging process.
Optimal dosages
The daily dose of selenium for children is calculated based on age characteristics. In this case, standard dosage regimens look like this:
| Child's age | Selenium norm for children, mcg per day |
| Up to 6 months | 10 |
| From 6 to 12 months | 15 |
| From 1 year to 6 years | 20 |
| From 7 to 10 years | 30 |
Starting from adolescence, the dosage of selenium for children is calculated taking into account gender. Girls aged 10–14 years are recommended to take 45 mcg of active substance per day, and boys – 40 mcg. In the period from 15 to 18 years, the dose of selenium required for the full functioning of the body for children increases to 50 mcg.
Replenishing selenium in the body
Most people in the modern world have reduced levels of selenium in their bodies. To prevent the occurrence of a deficiency condition, which can lead to malfunctions of various organs and systems, it is necessary to take selenium vitamins. Various complexes, which contain an important microelement, are offered by manufacturers in a huge variety. They can be purchased in pharmacies at an affordable price. But if you include selenium-rich foods in your diet, then you can completely do without dietary supplements.
You can ensure that the body receives the required amount of selenium by eating 6-8 Brazil nuts a couple of times a week. Also sources of the microelement are walnuts, soybeans, lentils, peas, and seeds. Selenium is also found in sufficient quantities in rice, buckwheat, and oatmeal. Available foods that will help maintain normal microelement levels are seafood and fish. Dishes from shrimp, mussels, crabs, sardines, tuna, and halibut should appear regularly in the diet. It should be remembered that with prolonged heat treatment, the level of selenium in dishes decreases.
Despite the fact that selenium is not produced by the human body, its normal level is easy to maintain with a balanced diet. This will support the body’s defense reactions and reduce the risks of developing many serious diseases.
The Best Dietary Supplements with Selenium
If you are at risk of selenium deficiency, then you may want to consider taking supplements with this mineral. You can choose complex vitamin-mineral supplements or preparations containing only the essential mineral. In any case, you need to choose only reliable manufacturers and buy supplements in specialized stores. This article will be a short analysis of the 2 best brands of dietary supplements and their products with selenium.
The first company is Solgar, an American manufacturer of premium quality dietary supplements at good prices. Solgar has been operating since 1947, is known throughout the world and has many positive reviews. It is also important that the company supplies large volumes of its products to Russia. This means that the likelihood of buying a fake is extremely low.
The most common dietary supplements with selenium from Solgar are yeast-free Solgar Selenium 250 tablets of 200 mcg and 100 pieces of 100 mcg. The standard price of these additives is 2400 and 750 rubles, respectively. The company names the main beneficial properties of selenium for the body as antioxidant effects and strengthening the immune system. You need to take the supplement 1-2 tablets per day (but not more than 200 mcg) with meals.
The second most reliable brand is also an American company - Now Foods. Unlike Solgar, it occupies a niche in the budget segment, although the quality of its products remains high. All other benefits of Solgar and Now Foods are also the same.
NOW Selenium is most often found in 2 packs: 180 capsules of 200 mcg and 250 tablets of 100 mcg. There are no differences in administration: the manufacturer also recommends taking 1-2 tablets per day with meals. There is only one contraindication - intolerance to the substance L-Selenomethionine. However, in any case, before using a dietary supplement, you should consult your doctor.
