Skip Navigation Home Accessibility Statement Sitemap Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions Contact Us Access Key Details
Text Size A A A Print   Tell a friend 
 
Selenium

Recommended Daily Intake
55 mcg

Food Sources

  • Seafood
  • Meat
  • Whole grains
  • Eggs
  • Dairy Products

    Problems Associated with Deficiencies

  • Symptoms in humans have not been identified

    Functions/Potential Benefits at Recommended Levels

  • Complements vitamin E to help fight cell damage from oxidation
  • Needed for proper immune system response
  • Plays a role in many antioxidant enzymes
  • Helps prevent Keshan disease
  • Necessary for normal growth and development
  • Necessary for use of iodine in metabolism of thyroid hormones

    Potential Benefits Under Investigation

  • It has been theorized that selenium, when supplemented with beta-carotene and vitamin E, may reduce risk of certain cancers
  • It has been hypothesized that selenium may reduce the risk of ovarian cancer

    Special Considerations/Possible Adverse Effects with Excess Intake

  • Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) is 400 mcg/day

    * Information in this chart is not intended to provide a complete review on any topic.
    ** The information in this chart is in reference to healthy adults only, not to children or pregnant and lactating women.

  •  
    Calcium
    Chromium
    Copper
    Iodine
    Iron
    Magnesium
    Manganese
    Molybdenum
    Nickel
    Phosphorus
    Potassium
    Selenium
    Silicon
    Tin
    Vanadium
    Zinc