Gnosis by Lesaffre - What is selenium, this essential trace element for the human body?

What is selenium, this essential trace element for the human body?

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Selenium is a trace element essential to the proper functioning of the human body. Selenium is involved in many physiological processes including immunity and male reproduction.

Selenium is an essential micronutrient, existing into 2 forms: inorganic  (selenate, selenide and selenite) and organic (selenomethionine and selenocysteine). The main difference between these two forms is that organic selenium is linked to an amino acid thus forming selenoproteins presenting an increased bioavailability as compared to inorganic forms.

As  micronutrient, selenium can be consumed in a wide variety of food such as grains, nuts, vegetables, meat, seafood, and dairy products.

A disparity among soils around the world

Countries around the world differ in the amount of natural selenium present in soils. USA and Canada have a high selenium content in the soil. Instead of some other areas which present a poorer soil level of selenium content such as many regions of China, New Zealand, Europe, and Russia.

Soil selenium distribution can be a risk factor. It can lead to selenium deficiency. Therefore, selenium deficiencies are frequently observed in many areas of the globe, especially in the areas where the soil is poor in selenium. A selenium supplementation could represent an alternative to selenium deficiency in poor selenium areas.

selenium map

Selenium concentration in soil is high in Europe (dark green) and low in dry regions (beige)

Selenium a mineral to support human health

Selenium contributes to the normal function of immune system and to the protection of cells from oxidative stress. Knowing that immunity is now one of the main health concerns of consumers. Thus, providing selenium in food, could be an interesting alternative to low intakes.

In addition to the support of the immune system, selenium has also an action on male reproduction. Indeed, selenium contributes to normal spermatogenesis.

Lynside® Forte Se+, the highest bioavailable source of selenium

Lynside® Forte Se+ is an organically bound yeast that offer a better bioavailability thanks to the selenomethionine. Consuming Lynside® Forte Se+ assures a higher selenium absorption compared to other sources of selenium

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The information provided here is, to the best of our knowledge, true and accurate. However, our products must only be used in compliance with local laws and regulations. We cannot guarantee the freedom of use for every intended application or country. These statements may not have been evaluated by your local Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. A healthy, balanced and diversified diet should fulfill all nutritional needs.