| Selenium is a trace element in humans. It is used in free radical elimination and other antioxidant enzymes, and also plays a role in the functioning of the thyroid gland. Dietary selenium comes from cereals, meat, fish, and eggs. Brazil nuts are a particularly rich source of selenium.
Selenium deficiency in healthy people is relatively rare. It can occur in patients with severely compromised intestinal function, or those undergoing total parenteral nutrition. Alternatively, people dependent on food that is sourced from selenium-deficient soil are also at risk. The recommended dietary allowance for adults is 55 micrograms per day. More than 400 micrograms per day can lead to toxicity (selenosis).
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