Benefits of Selenium for Skin, Body & Hair | Deficiency | Top Foods

The benefits of selenium for skin and body were discovered in 1827 by Swedish scientist Jons Jacob Berzeluis.

He named it after the Greek goddess of the moon "Selene". But the importance of these antioxidant mineral in humans was discovered in 1973.

It is a trace mineral with great antioxidant power.

Trace Minerals in Food

But, what are trace minerals?

We can distinguish two types of minerals: 

• Macro-minerals, which our body needs in larger amounts
  
• Trace minerals, which our body needs in small amounts
  

We need this antioxidant only in small amounts, but without it we couldn't survive or develop properly. It works together with Vitamin E and is an integral part of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase.

This trace element can be found in kidneys, liver, spleen, pancreas. Apparently, men need more of this mineral than women, and is stored mostly in the testicles.

Advantages of Selenium

• Keep us protected from the toxic effects of metals like cadmio, mercury, lead and arsenic.
  
• Protect cells from damage caused by oxidation and free radicals.

Helps defend our organism from several diseases such as: 

• Cancer
  
• Heart related conditions
  
• Asthma
  
• Arthritis
  
• Muscular dystrophy
  
• Diabetes
  
• Stroke
  
• Cataracts

Other Selenium Health Benefits

It also improves:

• Fertility
• Immunity
  
• Brain function
  
• Aging skin

Our intake of this nutrient comes from the plants grown in soil and from animals. It varies depending in what part of the world we live. In some parts of the world the soil is deficient in this mineral. These parts are: 

• China
  
• New Zealand
  
• Finland
  

Whereas other parts have high levels like in:

• Northern Nebraska
  
• Dakota

What Are the Side Effects of Selenium?

Deficiency is rare but can lead to:

• Fatigue
  
• Muscular weakness
  
• Heart disease
  
• Immunity problems

Too much selenium is also rare, but high dosages of this trace mineral could lead to:

• Hair and nail loss
  
• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Garlic odor breath

It is sold in supplements, in the form of tablets and pills and sometimes together with other antioxidants like vitamin e.

Our organism need only small amounts of this mineral, and we will be able to get it from a healthy and balanced diet, however if you are thinking in supplementing your diet with tablets, it is advised that you consult your doctor or nutritionist first.

10 Foods With High Selenium Content 

1. Brazil nuts

2. Turkey

3. Eggs

4. Tuna

5. Sunflower seeds

6. Liver

7. Sardines

8. Mushrooms

9. Bananas

10. Garlic

Top 5 Benefits of Selenium for Skin & Hair

It is beneficial for the skin because:

• It has a powerful antioxidant action, and like all antioxidants it helps the skin fight free radicals
• Improves the skin's elasticity
  
• Delays aging skin
  
• It is also good for the hair and nails
  
• Treats and prevents dandruff

For a selenium cream check the top rated Moisturizing Antioxidant Maine Chaga by My Berry Organics.  Is an organic moisturizer you can use on the face and body. The main ingredient is birch chaga mushroom and many minerals and antioxidants. Some of the ingredients include safflower, cucumber, aloe vera, green tea, Shea butter and grape seed oil. Is lightweight, non greasy and easily absorbed. Great for sensitive skin too.

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Skin Care Tips › Skin Vitamins|Minerals › Selenium For Skin

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