US RDA
55 mcg daily
Effective dose
100 to 200 mcg daily for thyroid support
Upper limit
400 mcg daily
Timing
Any time
With food
Optional
Bioavailability
Selenomethionine > sodium selenite > selenite
Best forms to buy
Selenomethionine
Best absorbed, most researched
Brazil nuts (2 to 3 daily)
Food-based source
Sodium selenite
Cheaper, less bioavailable
Signs of deficiency
- · Thyroid dysfunction
- · Muscle weakness
- · Poor immunity
- · Hair loss
Drug interactions
- · May reduce effects of some cholesterol medications
Toxicity
Hair and nail loss, garlic breath, GI issues, nervous system effects at doses above 400 mcg for extended periods.