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Selenium is an important mineral that is vital to a healthy body. It is found naturally in soil, water and certain foods. In some parts of the world selenium deficiencies are very common. For example, China does not have soil that is highly concentrated in selenium, making their incidence of selenium deficiency higher than that of the United States and Canada. No matter where you live it is important to ensure that you have proper selenium in your diet.

Selenium is needed by the body for various reasons. It prevents damage which free radicals can do to the cells. It also promotes a healthy immune system, regulates thyroid function and can help reduce the rate of cancer. Many studies have shown that there is a direct relationship between selenium intake and cancer mortality between countries. Residents of cities with low selenium blood levels have higher cancer death rates. Selenium also prevents cataracts and heart disease.  If you do not have enough selenium in your diet you may experience symptoms such as an enlarged heart, poor heart functioning, muscle weakness and pain. To ensure that you get enough selenium in your diet you should eat foods rich in this mineral such as brazil nuts, wheat germ, garlic, whole grains, sunflower seeds, walnuts, raising and shellfish. There is such a thing as too much selenium so be careful to not overload on these foods. Brazil nuts contain a very high amount of selenium so only eat these occasionally. Too much selenium can result in intestinal problems, hair loss, fatigue and irritability.

If taking a multivitamin with selenium or selenium as a supplement on its own, it is best to take it with Vitamin E because together they absorb better into the body.