Mineral
Selenium (as High Selenium Yeast)
Also known as: selenized yeast, selenium yeast, organic selenium
Selenium is an essential trace mineral that acts as a cofactor for selenoproteins, including glutathione peroxidase, a powerful antioxidant enzyme. High selenium yeast is an organic form containing selenium incorporated into yeast proteins.
Primary uses
- antioxidant defense
- thyroid health
- immune function
- cardiovascular health
How it works
- cofactor for glutathione peroxidase and other selenoproteins
- protects against oxidative stress
- supports thyroid hormone metabolism
- regulates immune responses
Dosage
- Typical range
- 55-200 mcg daily
- Timing
- any time of day
- With food
- can be taken with or without food
- Duration
- ongoing for general health; avoid exceeding 400 mcg daily
- Special populations
- pregnant/nursing women: 60-70 mcg daily; those with autoimmune thyroid disease should consult provider
Forms
- high selenium yeast· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- garlic odor on breath (at high doses)
- hair/nail fragility (toxicity sign)
Contraindications
- do not exceed 400 mcg daily long-term; Hashimoto's thyroiditis (may require caution with high doses)
Evidence notes
Selenium has good evidence for antioxidant and thyroid support. Selenized yeast provides selenium in a bioavailable organic form, showing favorable absorption and retention compared to inorganic selenite.
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
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