Most people have heard of iron, calcium, or magnesium — but selenium? Not so much. And yet, this trace mineral plays a major role in everything from immunity to thyroid function and even fertility.

In this guide, you’ll learn what selenium does, how much you need, where to get it naturally, and how to choose the best selenium supplement in the UK if you’re not getting enough from food.

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✅ What is Selenium?

Selenium is a micronutrient your body needs in very small amounts — but it punches well above its weight.

It acts as an antioxidant, protecting your cells from damage, and helps regulate:

• 🛡️ Immune system function
• 🦋 Thyroid hormone metabolism
• 💪 Reproductive health (especially in men)
• 🧠 Brain and cognitive function
• 🧬 DNA synthesis and repair

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⚠️ Signs You Might Be Low in Selenium

Although severe deficiency is rare in the UK, low selenium status is more common than you might think — especially in people who eat little fish or meat.

Possible signs include:

• Weakened immunity
• Brain fog or poor concentration
• Fatigue or low energy
• Hair loss or brittle nails
• Fertility issues (in men)

📉 Soil in the UK is naturally low in selenium, which means even a healthy diet may not provide optimal levels.

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✅ How Much Selenium Do You Need?

• The NHS recommends 60 µg/day for women and 75 µg/day for men.
• The upper safe limit is around 400 µg/day, so it’s important not to overdo it — more is not better.

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🥜 Best Dietary Sources of Selenium

Here are some of the top selenium-rich foods:

• Brazil nuts – just 1–2 nuts can meet your daily needs!
• Tuna, sardines, and salmon
• Beef and turkey
• Eggs
• Whole grains (limited in UK due to soil levels)

💡 If you don’t regularly eat these foods, a low-dose supplement may help you stay topped up safely.

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💊 Choosing a Selenium Supplement

If you decide to supplement, here’s what to look for:

✅ Form: Choose selenium yeast or L-selenomethionine — both are well absorbed and effective.
❌ Avoid cheap forms like sodium selenite unless part of a blend.
✅ Dose: Stick to 50–200 µg per day.
✅ Clean label: No added sugar, artificial colours, or unnecessary fillers.
✅ Made in the UK: Helps ensure quality and safety standards.

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🛒 Trusted Selenium Supplements in the UK

Here are some trusted options (affiliate links coming soon):

• Cytoplan Selenium 200 µg – Wholefood form, gentle on the stomach
• Nature’s Best Selenium 200 µg – High strength, UK-made
• Together Health Selenium Complex – Vegan, food-based, sustainably sourced
• Wild Nutrition Thyroid Complex – Includes selenium, iodine, and zinc for thyroid support

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🧠 Final Thoughts

Selenium might not get the headlines, but it’s a critical nutrient for long-term health — especially for thyroid function, fertility, and immunity.

You don’t need a high dose. Just the right amount from quality food or a clean supplement can go a long way.

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🔗 Related Reading:

Learn more about minerals that matter: Check out our guide to the best magnesium supplements in the UK