Selenium
Advanced wellnessalso se
What it isSelenium is a trace mineral incorporated into selenoproteins, including glutathione peroxidase and the deiodinases that convert T4 to T3.
DoesPowers the body's master antioxidant glutathione system, drives thyroid hormone activation, and supports immune.
GoodMid-high selenium supports thyroid conversion, antioxidant defense, and immune resilience.
BadLow selenium impairs T4-to-T3 conversion, weakens antioxidant defense, and increases autoimmune thyroid risk. Excess causes selenosis — hair loss, brittle nails, neurological symptoms.
- Standard
- 70–150 µg/L.
- Optimal
- 120–150 µg/L (narrow target)
- Modifiers
- Soil content dictates food levels regionally; Brazil nut content varies enormously.
How to optimize
- Lifestyle
- —
- Diet
- Brazil nuts (1–2 per day), sardines, tuna, eggs, sunflower seeds; one Brazil nut covers daily needs.
- Supplements
- Selenomethionine (100–200µg/day); avoid combining with high Brazil nut intake (selenium toxicity risk).
- Peptides
- —
- Drugs
- —
Reference ranges are general adult lab norms; optimal ranges are editorial picks from the longevity literature — not medical advice. Always interpret results with your physician.
within Minerals