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Life is everything. Let's make it a healthy one!

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Life is everything. Let's make it a healthy one!

Thank you for your visit!
Life is everything. Let's make it a healthy one!

Thank you for your visit!

Selenium, Se: 10 Research-Backed Benefits & 2 Side-Effects

Selenium is classified as a trace mineral. It has many health benefits.

Selenium contributes to growth, supports healthy muscle activity, reproductive organs, reduces the toxicity of certain elements such as mercury, supports the immune system, and can even delay the spread of certain viruses. It also ensures the proper functioning of the thyroid gland.

But the most important role of selenium is its antioxidant effect. Because the antioxidant effect of selenium can prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, reduce inflammation, strengthen the immune system, and help protect the body against oxidative stress.

In large doses, selenium can be harmful. Getting too much selenium over time can cause selenium poisoning.

Increased dietary selenium intake is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

In this article, we list claims of potential benefits and/or side-effects of selenium, se that we have found research on. Every claim is listed with all of its sources. We get these claims from our Nutrition Tool.

We also have an article about selenium, se named What Is Selenium & What Foods Can I Find It In? if you're interested in learning more.

Research-Backed Beneficial Claims Of Selenium, Se

These are some of the potential research-backed health benefits of selenium, se.

1. Cancer

Selenium - Cancer

About this claim

Cancer is when abnormal cells divide without control in your body, making you ill. Research shows that some nutrients can play a vital role in the treatment of various cancers, but also as one prevention method.

Research sources for this claim

You are welcome to explore 53 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.

2. Cell Health

Selenium - Cell Health

About this claim

A cell is the smallest unit of life. They provide structure for the body, taking nutrients from food, and carry out functions. Our cells require nutrients to function optimally. According to research, some specific nutrients can beneficially affect your cells. Healthy cells are vital for your overall health.

Research sources for this claim

You are welcome to explore 36 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.

3. Child Growth

Selenium - Child Growth

About this claim

Children grow from birth to the ages of 15-17. Evidence through research shows that some nutrients may help your child reach their full growth potential.

Research sources for this claim

You are welcome to explore 26 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.

4. Chronic Diseases

Selenium - Chronic Diseases

About this claim

Common chronic diseases are heart disease and stroke, cancer, and diabetes. Nutrition is vital in both prevention and giving aid during ongoing sickness, according to research.

Research sources for this claim

You are welcome to explore 11 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.

5. Hormones

Selenium - Hormones

About this claim

Keeping your hormones healthy is key to an overall good health. Research is telling us about key nutrients that can help us achieve healthy hormones in balance.

Research sources for this claim

You are welcome to explore 12 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.

6. Immune System

Selenium - Immune System

About this claim

Our body's immune system protects us from bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances. A well-functioning immune system is critical for survival. Consuming enough right nutrients in your diet is required for the health and function of all immune cells, according to research. Specific nutrients might help with modulating your immune system for it to work at its best.

Research sources for this claim

You are welcome to explore 34 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.

7. Inflammation

Selenium - Inflammation

About this claim

Consuming foods that are bad for you can cause chronic inflammations. Research shows some nutrients that might be beneficial for you when battling inflammation. Some nutrients possess inhibitory and anti-inflammatory functions.

Research sources for this claim

You are welcome to explore 47 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.

8. Muscles Health

Selenium - Muscles Health

About this claim

Keeping your muscles healthy will help you in your everyday life, even when aging. Some nutrients, according to research, may be beneficial in your quest to keep your muscles healthy and strong

Research sources for this claim

You are welcome to explore 17 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.

9. Oxidative Stress

Selenium - Oxidative Stress

About this claim

Oxidative stress is an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body. It can lead to cell and tissue damage. Several studies have shown that some nutrients might be beneficial in keeping the balance between the free radicals and antioxidants in the body.

Research sources for this claim

You are welcome to explore 18 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.

10. Reproduction

Selenium - Reproduction

About this claim

Reproduction is when organisms replicate themselves. Research shows that some nutrients can be beneficial in the process of reproduction.

Research sources for this claim

You are welcome to explore 9 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.

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Research-Backed Side-Effects Of Selenium, Se

These are some of the potential research-backed side-effects of selenium, se.

1. Diabetes And Insulin Resistance

Selenium - Diabetes And Insulin Resistance

About this claim

Diabetes and insulin resistance are both medical conditions. According to research, some nutrients raise your glucose levels, which are bad for you, especially if you have diabetes or are insulin resistant.

Research sources for this claim

You are welcome to explore 24 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.

2. Toxicity Of Nutrients

Selenium - Toxicity Of Nutrients

About this claim

Some micronutrients might become toxic for you if taken too much during a long period in time. It is more common if taking supplements. Also, some fatty acids have the ability to become toxic to various degrees.

Research sources for this claim

You are welcome to explore 5 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.

Sara Niemelä

co-founder Care Omnia, Head Content Creator




Sara
Niemelä

Nutrition is my passion. I've spent thousands upon thousands of hours reading, analyzing, categorizing and comparing research studies.

I’m a wife and a mother of three. I enjoy the outdoors, cooking, and spending time with my family.