An important factor for many body processes is selenium. It is noteworthy that selenium plays an important role in fertility, reproductive health, thyroid functions plus in immunity etc. Selenium is available naturally in foods or as supplements.
It is true that we can be free from thyroid disorders by consuming selenium that is present in lentils, Brazil nuts, sea foods, poultry etc. Our metabolism, brain development, growth and hormonal functions etc are controlled by thyroid gland. We could get thyroid problems like hypothyroidism, thyroid cancer, nodules etc due to thyroid imbalance. For the sake of our thyroid health, it is a must that we must consume selenium rich foods. Various symptoms of selenium deficiency are poor immunity, hair loss, brain fog, fatigue etc.
Point is that selenium is an important component of enzyme deiodinases. These would convert thyroid hormone thyroxine into more active form T3 or triiodothyronine.
How selenium affects thyroid?
Boost immunity:
It is important to mention here that selenium has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in it and it would lower the infection risk in us. The circulation of free radicals in the human body Is catalysed by selenium. This would boost our body cells to fight off infections etc.
Good for cognitive function:
Not only our memory would get enhanced by selenium intake but it would also keep the brain more alert and active. A recent study conducted by University of Queensland revealed that the studies on the impact of exercise on the ageing brain found levels of protein key to selenium transportation in the blood were elevated by physical activity. The cognitive impact of stroke could be reversed by selenium.
Antioxidant power:
It is known that selenium is rich in antioxidants and due to this damage to the brain cells would be combated. This would keep diseases such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer`s disease and Parkinson`s disease etc away.
Supports immune functions:
The presence of selenium in adequate amounts in our body would help us to avoid thyroid issues well.
Daily recommended intake of selenium:
It has been brought out by health experts that infants require 15 mcg of selenium every day and children between 9 and 13 of age require 40 mcg of selenium per day. An adult would require 55 mcg of selenium per day.