Mineral trace elements and health - Other trace elements - Selenium

3 important questions on Mineral trace elements and health - Other trace elements - Selenium

What is the daily requirement os selenium for adults?

50 mg.

How can the selenium level be determined?

Selenium status can be determined by measuring selenium levels in the blood. Long term exposure to selenium can be assessed by measuring selenium levels in hair and nails.

Why does the body need selenium?

  • Selenium is needed in the body as a component of so-called selenoproteins.
  • Selenoproteins contain an uncommon amino acid called selenocysteine.
  • Selenocysteine is identical to the amino acid cysteine except that the sulfur in cysteine is replaced by selenium.
  • Most selenoproteins, including several glutathione peroxidases and thioredoxin reductases, are involved in anti-oxidant functions and protect cells from damage.
  • Other selenoproteins are involved in thyroid hormone metabolism, DNA synthesis, and reproduction.

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