Selenium Deficiency
What Does It Mean?
Selenium is a vital trace mineral that plays a key role in thyroid hormone metabolism, antioxidant defense, and immune system function. A deficiency can impair thyroid function, increase oxidative stress, and lead to systemic dysfunctions such as fatigue, cognitive decline, and weakened immune response.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes:
- Poor Dietary Intake – Insufficient selenium-rich foods such as Brazil nuts, seafood, and organ meats.
- Gastrointestinal Disorders – Conditions like Crohn’s disease or celiac disease impair selenium absorption.
- Excessive Oxidative Stress – Chronic inflammation increases selenium demand.
- Heavy Metal Toxicity – Mercury and cadmium can deplete selenium levels.
- Chronic Illness & Thyroid Dysfunction – Selenium is critical for thyroid hormone conversion and immune support.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Fatigue and muscle weakness
- Hair thinning and brittle nails
- Cognitive decline and poor concentration
- Increased susceptibility to infections
- Impaired thyroid function (hypothyroid symptoms)
- Cardiovascular irregularities
Lab Test Findings
| Lab Test Name | Expected Change | Optimal Range |
| Free T3 : Free T4 Ratio | Decreased | 2.40-2.70 Ratio |
| Selenium, Serum | Decreased | 70.00-121.00 ug/L |
| T3 - Uptake | Decreased | 27.00-35.00 % |
| T3, Free (Triiodothyronine) | Decreased | 3.00-3.50 pg/mL |
| T3, Total | Decreased | 90.00-168.00 ng/dL |
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine Approach:
Correcting selenium deficiency involves optimizing dietary intake, enhancing absorption, and using targeted supplementation.
Supplement Protocol:
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Vita-Thyro | Provides essential selenium and other thyroid-supportive nutrients | 2 capsules with or without food, twice daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Increase Selenium-Rich Foods: Brazil nuts, seafood, eggs, sunflower seeds, and mushrooms.
- Reduce Oxidative Stress: Increase antioxidant intake from vitamin C, E, and glutathione precursors.
- Improve Gut Health: Support digestive function with probiotics and enzyme therapy to enhance selenium absorption.
- Minimize Exposure to Heavy Metals: Avoid mercury-containing seafood and environmental toxins that can deplete selenium.