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Selenium

Selenium Blood Test

Selenium supports immune defence and thyroid health. Regular monitoring helps maintain optimal antioxidant status and supports early detection of deficiency.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Selenium: what this test measures

This test measures the level of selenium in your blood. It reflects your dietary intake and selenium status, which is important for various selenoprotein functions.

Selenium: why this value matters

Selenium supports thyroid hormone metabolism, immune function, and protects cells from oxidative damage. Both deficiency and excess can affect health. Consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.

Selenium: when is testing worthwhile?

Testing may be recommended if you have thyroid disorders, live in a selenium-poor region, or have a restricted diet. It may also be relevant for those concerned about antioxidant status.

Selenium: symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

Symptoms of selenium deficiency may include fatigue, weakened immunity, thyroid dysfunction, muscle weakness, and cognitive decline. Severe deficiency can affect heart health.

High Levels

Excess selenium may cause garlic breath, hair loss, brittle nails, nausea, and neurological symptoms. Toxicity is usually from over-supplementation. Consult your healthcare provider.

Selenium: what to do about an abnormal value

Male

If Low

Low selenium may affect thyroid function and immune system. Consider Brazil nuts.

If High

High selenium can be toxic. Reduce supplementation.

Female

If Low

Low selenium may affect thyroid function. Consider Brazil nuts or supplementation.

If High

High selenium can be toxic. Reduce supplementation.

Selenium: lifestyle and this value

Brazil nuts are one of the richest sources of selenium — just 1-2 nuts per day may provide adequate intake. Other sources include seafood, eggs, and whole grains. Avoid excessive supplementation.

Selenium: frequently asked questions

How much selenium do I need daily?

Daily requirements are small. Your healthcare provider can advise on the right amount based on your individual needs. Excessive intake should be avoided.

Can selenium support thyroid health?

Yes, selenium is essential for converting thyroid hormones and may support thyroid function. It is often considered alongside iodine when evaluating thyroid health.

Are Brazil nuts really that high in selenium?

Yes, Brazil nuts are exceptionally rich in selenium. Just one or two per day can provide more than the daily recommended amount, making them both a convenient source and a risk for overconsumption.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.

Whoop

Whoop Metabolic Health

A 51-biomarker metabolic panel inspired by the WHOOP Metabolic Health Panel — blood sugar regulation, insulin, thyroid, liver and the mineral cofactors behind your metabolism.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Leukocyte Differential ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Albumin Total Protein Bilirubin (Total) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Total Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Triglycerides Lipoprotein(a) Urea (BUN) Creatinine eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Calcium Bicarbonate Chloride Sodium Potassium Magnesium Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Testosterone Free Testosterone TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Insulin (Fasting) HOMA-IR CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Ferritin Iron (Serum) Transferrin Transferrin Saturation Vitamin D (25-OH) Leptin Zinc Selenium Iodine Copper Free T3 (Triiodothyronine) Free T4 (Thyroxine) GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase)

€799,-

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