Find your recommended daily selenium intake based on age, sex, and life stage. Based on Australian NHMRC Nutrient Reference Values.
Selenium is a trace mineral essential for thyroid hormone metabolism, antioxidant defence (as part of glutathione peroxidase enzymes), DNA synthesis, and immune function. It works closely with vitamin E. Australia has selenium-poor soils in many regions, making dietary sources important.
Selenium deficiency is uncommon in Australia but can occur in people who rely entirely on locally grown food from selenium-poor soils, or those with malabsorption. Severe deficiency is associated with Keshan disease (cardiomyopathy) and Kashin-Beck disease (joint disease) — seen mainly in selenium-deficient regions of China.
UL is 400µg/day. Excess selenium (selenosis) causes hair loss, nail brittleness, garlic breath, skin rash, fatigue, and at high doses, nerve damage. High-dose supplements can exceed the upper limit.
See your GP if you are concerned about selenium deficiency, are pregnant or planning pregnancy, have a condition affecting nutrient absorption (coeliac disease, Crohn's, bariatric surgery), or are considering selenium supplements beyond a standard multivitamin dose.