What is Selenium?
Selenium is a trace element that is naturally present in the soil and environment and therefore in many foods. It is nutritionally essential but not naturally occurring in humans and therefore needs to be ingested.
Why is Selenium good for hair health?
Selenium contributes to the maintenance of healthy hair by playing an important role in immune system and thyroid function which, if compromised, could cause hair and scalp conditions. It also helps to prevent damage to cells and tissues.
What else is Selenium good for?
The National Institutes of Health, a US government body, suggests Selenium plays a critical role in reproduction, thyroid hormone metabolism, DNA synthesis, and can help protect against oxidative damage and infection.
Which foods contain Selenium?
Research has shown that whole foods are the best sources of selenium as the mineral may be destroyed during processing. Selenium content in food is largely dependent on location and soil conditions, which can vary widely.
Good natural food sources of selenium include:
- Nuts, such as Brazil nuts and walnuts
- Many fresh and saltwater fish such as tuna, cod, red snapper, and herring
- Beef and poultry
- Grains
How much Selenium do I need a day?
UK government guidelines published in 2016 recommend that men over the age of 19 should consume 75 micrograms of selenium per day and that women aged over 19 should consume 60 micrograms of selenium per day. The majority of selenium intake will come from a varied and balanced diet, although small doses via supplement can help to protect against deficiency.
How much Selenium is in Hair Vitalics supplements?
Each one-per-day tablet of Hair Vitalics for Men and Hair Vitalics for Women contains 50 micrograms of selenium.
What are the side effects of Selenium?
According to the UK Department of Health, you should be able to get all the selenium you need by eating a varied and balance diet. Too much selenium may cause selenosis, a condition that, in its mildest form, can lead to loss of hair, skin and nails. Taking 350 micrograms or less a day of selenium supplements is unlikely to cause any harm.
Please remember: Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, and always consult your doctor or take professional advice before taking any supplements if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, under medical supervision, have a medical condition, suffer from food allergies or are allergic to any of the ingredients.
To read more about the ingredients in Hair Vitalics, click here.
Last updated May 2020