Selenium: Why We Need It
Did you know that consuming foods high in selenium can benefit you in many ways? Selenium is an essential trace mineral that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It is needed to produce glutathione, your body’s master antioxidant. Eating high-selenium foods can help with detoxification and liver function, hormonal and thyroid health. Selenium also benefits heart health because it helps defend against oxidative damage to your body’s cells.
Main Foods High in Selenium
- Brazil nuts
- Wild-caught salmon
- Turkey
- Cottage cheese
- Chicken
- Mushrooms
- Eggs
- Sardines
- Sunflower seeds
- Grass-fed beef
- Beef liver
- Spinach
On a Final Note
I eat selenium-rich foods regularly and have recently started consuming a Brazil nut a day. Did you know that just one or two Brazil nuts a day (depending on their size) can help provide most people’s selenium daily needs?
As mentioned in a previous post, it’s important to keep in mind that it is recommended to keep nuts and seeds (and their flours) in the fridge or even the freezer for long-term storage. Nuts and seeds can be kept for approximately six months, and up to a year if they are still in their shell. If you detect any “rancid, oily smell or discoloration,” do not eat them. As nuts and seeds have a hard protective shell, buying organic is not a must with these.
Until next time!
Reference
Price, A. (2019, August 23). Top 15 High-Selenium Foods (Plus Their Benefits). Dr. Axe. https://draxe.com/nutrition/selenium-foods/
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