Description
Selenium is an antioxidant nutrient and has important interactions with other antioxidant micronutrients especially vitamin E.
Selenium used in our bodies to make the enzyme Glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx) which helps protect against oxidative damage. Selenium is a component of many selenoproteins some of which have important enzymic functions.
Absorption of dietary Selenium takes place mainly in the small intestine, and on reaching the bloodstream is transported largely bound to protein for deposition to various organs like the liver and kidney.
Selenium is present in foods mostly as amino acids selenomethionine and selenocysteine and rich food sources include brazil nuts, cereals like wheat, fish, shellfish and meat.