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MineralsModerate evidence

Selenium

Also known as: Se

Selenium is a trace element that forms part of antioxidant enzymes and of the enzymes that activate thyroid hormones. Central European soils are relatively low in selenium, yet only small amounts are needed – for example a couple of Brazil nuts.

What it is used for

  • Normal thyroid function – strong evidence (EFSA)
  • Protection of cells from oxidative stress and normal immunity – strong evidence for the basic role (EFSA)
  • Lower antibodies in Hashimoto's thyroiditis – weak to moderate evidence
  • Prevention of cancer or heart disease – no convincing evidence

Forms and how they differ

L-selenomethionine

organic form, well absorbed

selenium yeast

organic selenium bound in yeast

sodium selenite

inorganic form, less well absorbed

selenium with iodine

combination for the thyroid; check with your doctor whether you need iodine

When to take it

Once daily with food.

Pairs well with

Vitamin E, iodine (only if needed), zinc.

Do not combine / separate

Do not stack several selenium-containing products (multivitamins, thyroid formulas) – doses add up.

Watch out for

With thyroid disease, in pregnancy and if you take medicines, consult your doctor.

Safety

EFSA set an upper limit of 255 µg selenium per day (food and supplements combined). Signs of excess include brittle nails, hair loss and garlic breath.

Practical tip

With 200 µg products consider taking them every other day if you also eat fish, eggs or Brazil nuts.

Products containing Selenium 10

NAC – N-acetylcysteine + Selenium + MolybdenumNACAntioxidantLiverImmunityThyroid
Selenium 200 µgSe-methyl-L-selenocysteine · 200 µg / capsuleThyroidAntioxidantImmunityFertility
Selenium L-selenomethionine + iodine (kombu) 100 µgL-selenomethionine + iodine (kombu) · 100 µg / capsuleThyroidAntioxidantImmunityFertility
Selenium 100 µgselenomethionine · 100 µg / tabletThyroidAntioxidantImmunityFertility
Selenium 200 µg200 µg / servingThyroidAntioxidantImmunityFertility
Selenium 200 µgglycinate · 200 µg / capsuleThyroidAntioxidantImmunityFertility
Selenium 300 µgionic · 300 µg / servingThyroidAntioxidantImmunityFertility
Selenium L-selenomethionine 100 µgL-selenomethionine · 100 µg / capsuleThyroidAntioxidantImmunityFertility
Selenium selenium yeast 100 µgselenium yeast · 100 µg / capsuleThyroidAntioxidantImmunityFertility
Vitamin E + Selenium 400 IUd-alpha tocopherol + selenium · 400 IU / capsuleAntioxidantSkinImmunityThyroid
How to read the evidence rating
Strong evidenceModerate evidenceWeak evidenceNo evidence

Strong = several good human studies or official recommendations; moderate = promising but smaller studies; weak = few studies or mixed results; no evidence = claims not confirmed.

Combination check

Select the supplements you take and, if relevant, your medicines. We show what interferes, what needs a time gap and what to watch out for.

Check Selenium with others

Which supplements do you actually need?

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Important notice

This information is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. We do not give medicine dosages. Supplements are no substitute for a varied diet; if pregnant, breastfeeding, ill or on medication, consult a doctor first.