Selenium is an essential mineral for the human body. It helps to create antioxidant enzymes that help prevent and protect cells from oxidative stress (damage.) It’s also vital for thyroid and immune system health. There are some easy and delicious ways to get more selenium naturally in your diet.
Brazil Nuts
Boasting 2550 mcg of selenium–more than 3000% of the RDA–per serving, brazil nuts pack a nutritional punch! Also a good source of magnesium (500 mcg, 125% RDA) potassium, (875 mcg, 25% RDA), copper (2.3 mcg, 116% RDA) and phosphorous, (964 mcg, 96% RDA) there’s more than one reason to grab a handful!
Cod
With 118 mcg (169% RDA) of selenium, this versatile white fish also provides 760 mg (76% RDA) phosphorous and 8 mcg vitamin B12 (133% RDA.)
Oysters
With 38 mcg (55%) of selenium, oysters also provide .7 mg (33%) of your daily copper and 7.2 mcg of vitamin B12 (120%).
Liver
Liver (pork, beef, goose, duck, lamb) is a great source of selenium. Lamb liver, for instance, contains 374 mcg (535% RDA) of selenium, plus a huge amount of vitamin B12 257 mcg (4284% RDA!) and 796% RDA. But do know that it also contains 561% RDA of cholesterol (1683 mg) so do consult your doctor if you want add liver to your diet on a regular basis.
Sesame Seeds
1 cup of this super seed provides provide 146 mcg of selenium (209% RDA) and are also a great source of manganese, copper, magnesium phosphorous, potassium, thiamin, and fiber. (More about the benefits of sesame seeds here.)
Sunflower Seeds
1 cup of shelled sunflower seeds provide 106 mcg (151% RDA) of selenium plus 245% RDA of vitamin E, 79% folate, and 154% phosphorous, making this cheerful seed not just for your backyard bird feeder!
Related:
What you Need to Know About Selenium