What is Selenium ??

· Selenium is an essential trace element which is obtained from the soil.  Therefore the level of Selenium varies according to the degree of Selenium in the soil.

Functions of Selenium

· Acts as an antioxidant, for example, prevents the breakdown of fat to damaging substances to our body.
· Needed for the body's metabolism
· Studies have found that areas where the level of selenium is low, the incidence of cancer of the oesophagus and heart muscle defect is high.

Sources of Selenium

· Wholemeal flour & bread
· Cheese
· Selenium-enriched Eggs
· Fish, for example snapper, Mackerel
· Salmon
· Oysters
· Rice
· Almonds
· Brazil nuts
· Cashews
· Walnuts
· Sunflower seeds
· Organ meat
· Beef
· Lamb
· Chicken
· Pork
· Most fruit, vegetables and milk contain small amounts

REFERENCES

1. Stanton, R.  (1996)  Rosemary Staton's Complete Book of Food & Nutrition. NSW, AUST.

2. Wahlqvist, M & Briggs, D.  (1988)  Food Facts.  NSW, AUST.

3. Escott-Stump, S. (1997)  Nutrition & Diagnosis - Related Care. US

4. Mahan, L & Escott-Stump, S. (2000) Food, Nutrition & Diet Therapy.  US

OTHER MATERIAL

1. NSW HEALTH & NORTHCOTT SOCIETY.  Vitamin Folate - Important Message for Women. NSW, AUST.