Yeast, or Candida albicans, is bacteria that occurs naturally in small amounts in the mouth, digestive tract, vagina and on the skin. Yeast infections result from an overgrowth of Candida, and though they can affect all populations irrespective of age or gender, they are most common among women. Selenium is a mineral that aids in several essential functions in the body, and its anti-fungal properties help to prevent the over-production of the Candida that produces yeast infections.
Selenium and Your Health
Selenium plays an important role in the healthy maintenance of your body, which requires the mineral for the function of dependent enzymes, known as salenoproteins. Salenoproteins fulfill a number of metabolic functions and help with energy transfer, cellular respiration, fetal development and sperm production in men. Selenium is necessary for the structure of your nails and hair and is a powerful antioxidant. In helping to make antibodies and boost the immune system, selenium helps protect the body against infections, such as Candida overgrowth.
Selenium and Yeast
In addition to promoting your body's production of antibodies, selenium is also anti-fungal when consumed in higher quantities and thus helps to protect against excess Candida. Sugar consumption stimulates your body's production of yeast. Selenium forms a central part of the enzyme glutathione, which helps to metabolize the carbohydrates that are broken down into sugars in your body.
Sources of Selenium
The Institute of Medicine's recommended daily allowance of selenium for adult men and women is 55 mcg per day. Rich sources of selenium include Brazil nuts, whole grains, brewers yeast, seafood, cereals and organ meats, such as liver and kidneys. Many people do not receive adequate selenium from diet alone and benefit from taking a nutritional supplement. The National Institutes of Health reports that selenium is likely safe for adults up to levels of 400 mcg per day, however, long-term consumption of greater quantities can be toxic.
Selenium Deficiency and Yeast
A selenium deficiency can increase the risk of developing a yeast infection. Not receiving enough selenium in your diet limits your body's ability to regulate its amount of Candida by killing off excess production. In most cases, a selenium deficiency is easily remedied by increasing your intake of selenium-rich foods or taking a nutritional supplement.
Warnings
In high doses, selenium can be unsafe, especially for young children and pregnant and nursing women. Research also demonstrates that selenium can interact negatively with certain medications, including hormonal birth control. If you are considering taking supplemental selenium, consult with your doctor to discuss possible health risks and how much is appropriate for you. Additionally, while selenium is essential to maintaining your body's bacterial balance, multiple factors can stimulate the overgrowth of Candida associated with yeast infections. If you experience persistent or severe yeast infections, meet with your doctor to discuss treatment options.
