Selenium is a vital component of selenoproteins, including glutathione peroxidases and iodothyronine deiodinases, which regulate antioxidant protection and thyroid hormone activity. Adequate selenium intake supports cellular defense against oxidative stress, proper immune response, and thyroid function.
Functions:
Protects cells from oxidative damage via glutathione peroxidase
Supports thyroid hormone metabolism and regulation
Contributes to immune cell function and antiviral defense
Plays a role in reproductive health and fertility
Supports cardiovascular and cognitive health
TAILORBLEND uses selenium glycinate for its critical role in antioxidant protection, thyroid support, and immune health, particularly in populations with suboptimal dietary intake.
Selenium is an essential trace mineral commonly used to support:
Antioxidant defense (via glutathione peroxidase)
Thyroid hormone metabolism and conversion of T4 to T3
Immune system function
Reproductive health (sperm quality and fertility)
Cardiovascular health
Cognitive function and neuroprotection
Selenium content in foods depends heavily on soil selenium levels.
Animal Sources:
Seafood (tuna, salmon, sardines, shrimp)
Eggs
Poultry and beef
Plant-Based Sources:
Brazil nuts
Whole grains and cereals
Legumes (lentils, chickpeas)
Spinach and other leafy greens
Synergistic Nutrients:
Vitamin E: Works synergistically with selenium in antioxidant defense
Zinc: Supports immune and reproductive function
Iodine: Supports thyroid function alongside selenium
Glutathione precursors (e.g., cysteine): Enhance selenium-dependent antioxidant activity
Typical Dosages:
Maintenance: 55 µg/day (adult RDA)
Functional support (thyroid, antioxidant support): 100–200 µg/day
Upper supplemental range: 200–400 µg/day (avoid chronic excess)
Excess intake may cause selenosis (hair/nail brittleness, gastrointestinal upset, fatigue)
High-dose supplementation should be avoided during pregnancy unless medically indicated
People with liver or kidney disease should consult a healthcare provider
Selenium interacts with certain chemotherapy drugs and anticoagulants
NIH Fact Sheet on Selenium: ods.od.nih.gov
Rayman MP, Lancet (2012) – Selenium in human health
Brown & Arthur, Annu Rev Nutr (2001) – Selenium, selenoproteins, and antioxidant defense
Meplan et al., Nutrients (2018) – Selenium and thyroid function
Steinbrenner & Sies, Antioxid Redox Signal (2013) – Selenium and immune health