foods high in selenium - #27326
I am really stressed about my health lately and I need some advice about foods high in selenium. A couple of weeks ago, I noticed I've been feeling super fatigued and my hair seems to be thinning more than usual. My friend mentioned that maybe I'm not getting enough selenium in my diet? I didn't even know what that was until she told me. So, I checked online and came across this list of foods high in selenium, but now I'm all confused. I usually eat a lot of bread and pasta, maybe some fruits and veggies, but the foods on that list are nothing like what I normally eat. I saw things like Brazil nuts and tuna—never really ate those. I tried to find out how much selenium we actually need, and it’s kinda unclear! Do I have to change my whole diet or just add those foods high in selenium? Will it really help with my tiredness and hair issues? What if I just take a supplement instead? But then I read that too much selenium can be harmful too? Ugh, I just want to feel normal again! Any advice would be soooo appreciated, especially if you can point me to some simple, tasty recipes or how to mix those foods high in selenium into my everyday meals! Thanks!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
It’s understandable to feel a bit overwhelmed when changing dietary routines for health reasons, especially when you’re dealing with symptoms like fatigue and hair thinning. The good news is that incorporating foods high in selenium doesn’t have to be overly complicated, and while selenium deficiency could contribute to these symptoms, it’s important to get a holistic view of your health. Let’s break this down a bit. Selenium is a trace mineral that plays a crucial role in metabolism and thyroid function, among other things. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for adults is about 55 micrograms per day. Brazil nuts are among the richest sources; in fact, just one or two nuts could exceed the daily requirement. Moderate consumption is key since excessive selenium can indeed be harmful. Other good sources include seafood like tuna, sardines, and shrimp, meats such as beef and poultry, and grains, which means some of your bread might still contribute, though to a lesser extent. If these don’t fit seamlessly into your lifestyle, a balanced approach with small adjustments could do the trick. Consider simple recipes, like adding a serving of shrimp to a pasta dish or a tuna salad sandwich for lunch. Remember, foods can be supplemented without a complete diet overhaul. However, if your life-style doesn’t naturally include these, a selenium supplement could help, but do consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. Too much selenium can lead to toxicity, which can be as harmful as deficiency. Since your symptoms could also stem from a variety of factors, including other nutritional deficiencies or hormonal imbalances, it’s wise to have a thorough conversation with your doctor. They might recommend a blood test to check your selenium and other nutrient levels to get a clearer picture. Feeling back to your normal self often involves addressing overall lifestyle practices, including rest, stress management, and a balanced diet, not just focusing on one nutrient.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.