Selenium is a naturally occurring element, found both in some foods, soil and in foods that grow within soil containing selenium.

Certain regions around the world are known to contain higher amounts of selenium while others have been noted as lacking in this crucial nutrient.

Due to the benefits of selenium that contribute to a healthy immune system, selenium is considered to be an important anti-oxidant.

Brazil nuts contain the highest amounts of selenium than any other known food type. It is also possible to obtain selenium through other nuts, grains and seafood. Livestock who are allowed to graze on grains grown in soil containing selenium will typically contain selenium within their meat.

The many benefits of selenium include its ability to boost the body’s immune system and protect it against disease such as heart disease. Additionally, selenium assists the body with maintaining proper control of the thyroid gland. Individuals who have a deficiency in selenium are often reported as becoming much more susceptible to infections, bacteria and other illnesses.

Keshan Disease, Keshin-Beck Disease and Myxedematous Endemic Cretinism are all thought to be related to a deficiency in selenium. Almost seventy years ago Keshan Disease was first observed in rural areas of China where individuals tend to develop selenium deficiency due to the fact that the local primarily eat foods grown in that area in soil containing very little amounts of selenium.

Side effects related to taking too much selenium include a sense of fatigue, stomach problems and halitosis. This deficiency is known selenosis. It is very difficult to develop selenosis as most foods do not contain excessively large amounts of the mineral. Individuals who are concerned about digesting too much selenium should limit the amount of Brazil nuts they eat as this food is known to contain hundreds of micrograms of selenium per ounce.

While there are chemical forms of selenium supplements available, the best forms of selenium are those that are organic in nature. Organic forms of this mineral will provide the best and maximum benefits of selenium.

The recommended daily allowance of selenium for healthy adult who is not pregnant or lactating is about 55 micrograms per day. Young children only need about 20 to 40 micrograms, depending on age.