Selenium
Overview
Selenium is an essential trace mineral that functions as a critical cofactor for glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and other antioxidant enzymes. These selenium-dependent enzymes protect cell membranes and mitochondria from oxidative damage by neutralizing harmful reactive oxygen species. Selenium works within the broader antioxidant network, supporting redox balance and protecting against oxidative stress that can impair brain function. Adequate selenium intake is important for maintaining antioxidant defenses, particularly in tissues with high metabolic activity like the brain.
Recipes
2 recipes containing this substance
Salmon Bowl-pistachio-cacao-nibs
A functional ECS-supportive bowl combining salmon, avocado, pistachios, cacao nibs, and early harvest olive oil to help preserve anandamide tone, improve membrane lipid composition, and support gut–brain signaling.
Turkey Wing Stew
A collagen-rich, glycine-heavy slow-cooked stew made from affordable turkey wings — supporting gut, joint, sleep, and brain health.
Foods
14 foods containing this substance
Beef
High creatine, CoQ10, heme iron, and complete protein
Chicken
Complete protein with niacin, zinc, and tryptophan
Crab
Seafood providing zinc and complete protein
Duck Fat
Oleic acid, selenium, and palmitoleic acid for cooking
Eggs
Complete protein with choline, B vitamins, and phospholipids
Grass-Fed Butter
Butyrate, CLA, vitamins A/D/K2, selenium, and C15:0
Mushrooms
UV-exposed mushrooms provide vitamin D; niacin source for NAD+ synthesis
Salmon
Oily fish rich in EPA/DHA, protein, and B vitamins
Sardines
Small oily fish rich in EPA/DHA, CoQ10, and calcium
Shrimp
Seafood providing protein and minerals
Sunflower Seeds
Thiamine source and sunflower lecithin precursor
Tofu
Soy-based protein source with isoflavones and choline
Tuna
Fish providing omega-3, niacin, selenium, and complete protein
Turkey
High tryptophan and niacin for serotonin synthesis and NAD+ production
Biological Mechanisms and Implications
| Biological Target | Therapeutic Areas | Mechanism of Action |
|---|---|---|
| Mitochondrial Support | Protects mitochondria from oxidative damage through antioxidant enzyme activity | |
| Oxidative Stress | Supports glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and other antioxidant systems, protecting membranes and mitochondria from oxidative damage |
References
- Selenium supports glutathione peroxidase and other antioxidant systems, protecting membranes and mitochondria from oxidative damage
- Included among trace minerals essential for antioxidant networks