#thyroid and selenium

Selenium is such an important nutrient to our body. It is crucial in the metabolism of thyroid hormone, the body’s reproductive system, DNA synthesis and it also protects the body against damage and infection from free radicals in the body’s defenses which is also called oxidative stress.

What is the Thyroid gland?

The thyroid gland is a pink butterfly shaped gland that sits at the bottom of your neck. The thyroid gland is responsible for keeping your heart rate, metabolism, reproductive system and body temperature among other body functions running properly. When your thyroid gland is not functioning properly, your body will not function properly and you won't feel good.

Selenium and Thyroid Disorders: 

The thyroid gland is the organ with the highest concentration of selenium in the body, since selenium is important in the creation of thyroid hormone. Selenium can be found in many foods available for consumption, and it is also available in supplement form. It is important to have a regular daily supply of selenium because it is a critical nutrient to your thyroid’s good health. It also plays a vital role in your overall health. Research is still in its early stages,but there is evidence that women with higher levels of selenium have fewer thyroid problems. 

Selenium can have an impact on both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism conditions. Studies show that those with mild to moderate thyroid eye disease that started supplementing selenium have shown improvement in their quality of life as well as in their eye health. Studies also show increased risk of Graves’ disease in patients with low selenium levels.  Even if you don't have a selenium deficiency, taking supplements has shown to have a considerable impact on the immune system. Please talk to your doctor about starting any supplement as there is also the possibility of having too much selenium, more on this later. 

Who is at risk of having a selenium deficiency? 

A selenium deficiency in the United States is rare. Although most Americans get the selenium needed on a daily basis there are those who would be at risk of having a selenium deficiency: 

Those who have had gastric bypass surgery

If you live in an area with selenium-deficient soil

Intestinal, digestive or absorption issues like Crohn’s disease

Undergoing kidney dialysis

Having human immunodeficiency virus or (HIV)

If you suspect you may have a selenium deficiency talk to your doctor about being tested. The tests available for selenium deficiency are blood tests or a hair/nail analysis which can determine your levels as far back as months or years. Selenium deficiency can have symptoms that mimic some thyroid disorders so it may be easy to attribute these symptoms to something else. The symptoms of selenium deficiency: 

Infertility

Hair Loss

Fatigue

Weight gain

Being sick more often - low immune system

Brain fog 

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You can find selenium naturally in the foods you consume everyday. As I mentioned earlier you can also supplement selenium but it is recommended that you get this nutrient from food sources rather than supplements if possible. 

Selenium can be found in:

Brazil nuts

Seafood

Brown rice

Eggs

Cereals

Meats, beef, ham

Grains

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Possible health risks of taking too much selenium? 

It is also possible to take too much selenium as mentioned earlier. Low levels of selenium are concerning but high levels result in selenium toxicity. It is recommended that adults maintain a  daily dose of no more than 400 mcg. The symptoms of selenium toxicity include: 

A garlic-like smell to the breath

Metallic taste in mouth

Brittle nails

Mottled or decaying teeth

Nausea

Neurological abnormalities

Fatigue and irritability

Skins lesions and rashes

Hair loss

Diarrhea

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Final facts about selenium 

Always talk to your doctor before taking on any new supplements. 

Selenium may protect against thyroid problems, cancer, cognitive decline and asthma

The thyroid gland is the organ with the highest concentration of selenium in the body since selenium is important in the creation of thyroid hormone. 

Links: 

Use of selenium supplements

The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans encourage people to get their nutrients from food sources rather than supplements.

Selenium: What it does and how much you need

Selenium the missing link 

superpowers-of-selenium-for-your-thyroid

What to Know About Selenium and Your Thyroid

Natural Remedies for Fighting Oxidative Stress to Improve Health

Effects of Selenium Supplementation on Graves' Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis