Selenium - why it's so important

The body's own metabolism cannot produce selenium; therefore, it must be supplied daily in sufficient quantities through food.

Selenium is found in all cells and is an essential component of many enzymes. Selenium-containing enzymes perform vital functions in the body and are always active when cell protection is required. In this context, selenium supports cellular metabolism, protects against free radicals, and increases resistance to pathogens. If damage occurs during cell division, selenium ensures the necessary repair mechanisms. Furthermore, selenium supports the body's own natural killer cells in detecting and eliminating harmful cells. Therefore, an adequate supply of selenium is important for a well-functioning immune system and for maintaining the performance of various organs, such as the heart, intestines, and thyroid gland, as well as for bones and joints.

Nutrition should be the top priority. Regarding selenium, this means that selenium and other vital nutrients should be present in sufficient quantities in the diet. To ensure adequate selenium intake, it is recommended to supplement the daily diet with selenium. This is particularly advisable if the diet is insufficient to meet selenium requirements due to an unbalanced diet, or if the need for selenium is increased. Our bodies require selenium especially during periods of high physical exertion, stress, in old age, and during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and often cannot obtain sufficient amounts of this micronutrient. Furthermore, certain population groups (e.g., people with chronic malabsorption and digestive disorders, vegetarians) frequently consume too little selenium.