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Selenium
Established research area
A trace mineral with antioxidant roles, notably concentrated in Brazil nuts and seafood.
Often discussed in relation to
Commonly noted
- Commonly noted
- Selenium is a trace mineral the body builds into antioxidant proteins and uses in thyroid hormone metabolism.
- Low intake
- Low selenium status is uncommon in most regions and is commonly discussed in relation to areas where soil selenium is very low.
- Higher intake
- Very high selenium is commonly discussed in relation to brittle hair and nails, a garlic-like breath odor, and digestive upset (a state called selenosis); the commonly cited upper intake level for adults is 400 mcg a day, and just a few Brazil nuts can supply a large amount.
Source: NIH ODS
Reference intakes
General reference figures for a typical adult, not a personal target.
- rdaadult55 mcgDRI/NASEM
- uladult400 mcgDRI/NASEM
Foods and products containing it
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Brazil nuts are very rich in selenium; eating many every day can add up quickly toward the upper intake level.