Selenium is a mineral that the human body needs in small amounts. Ingested selenium combines with proteins to form selenoproteins, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Some selenoproteins help to regulate thyroid function and work with the immune system to combat illness. Although selenium is a key mineral, high levels can be toxic. The decision to take supplemental selenium should be made by your doctor since the average, healthy individual can get enough selenium from food.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition that relates to an underactive thyroid gland. MayoClinic.com defines hypothyroidism as an underproduction of hormones. The thyroid is responsible for producing a vital hormone known as triiodothyronine or T3. This hormone works in combination with other hormones to regulate cell health, growth and metabolism. When your body does not have the proper amount of selenium, it may produce less of this hormone. Taking an oral supplement may be one way to combat the deficiency but increasing foods, such as tuna or beef, will also help improve production of the T3 hormone.
Stress Management
Since the thyroid gland's main function is the production of hormones, it is not surprising that a selenium deficiency may increase stress. An article by the Linus Pauling Institute explains that the lack of selenium in the diet may make an individual susceptible to additional physiological stresses. People who do not get enough selenium may have decreased glutathione peroxidases, thioredoxin reductase and thyroid deiodinases. These are hormones that help to regulate body function and manage stress.
Cancer
The Office of Dietary Supplements states that increased intake of selenium may help to prevent cancer. Although the article does not list thyroid cancer specifically, it does state that as little as 200 mcg of selenium a day has shown to reduce the occurrence of some cancers. Selenium works as an antioxidant that protects cells from damage by free radicals. When selenium breaks down in the thyroid, the byproduct may work toward prevention of tumor growth. Other types of cancer said to be affected by selenium intake include lung, colorectal and prostrate. You should not rely on a selenium supplement to protect you from cancer, but increasing your dietary selenium may help. Foods, such as turkey, chicken breast and eggs will add selenium to your body.
