Selenium deficiency in Kiwis Selenium deficiency is relatively uncommon in many parts of the world, because it occurs naturally in the soil and is absorbed by the plants grown to produce food. However, selenium deficiency is a problem in New Zealand, because it is lacking in our soil. Some foods are fortified with selenium and other trace minerals, and some food producers have also attempted to introduce selenium to the soil.
Different types of selenium Selenium is a chemical element (atom) that is also found in combination with amino acids, called ‘selenomethionine’ or ‘selenium methionine’ after the amino acid it is attached to: methionine. This form of selenium is the most readily absorbed by the human body, and is the form most common in brazil nuts, some fish and legumes. Other selenium-containing amino acids are selenocysteine and methylselenocysteine. Methylselenocysteine is the form most common in vegetables such as onions, broccoli, cauliflower and garlic. There are two forms of selenomethionine: L-selenomethionine and D-selenomethionine. L-selenomethionine is the one that is biologically significant. There are also inorganic forms, selenite and selenite, as well as selenium-enriched yeast, which contains inorganic selenium that binds to the yeast proteins.
Selenium supplementation The main reasons for taking a health supplement containing L-selenomethionine are to support the immune system and cellular health. All forms of selenium are well absorbed, but especially selenomethionine. About Health’s Element 12 magnesium relaxation formula and our Multiva multivitamin both contain this form of selenium and are specially formulated for New Zealand men and women.
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