Selenium

Selenium’s role as an essential nutrient — for animals and people — is perhaps less known than its presence on the periodic table.

Selenium is a powerful antioxidant and plays a critical role in metabolism, normal growth, reproductive health, and immunity. Its deficiency is linked to several animal and human health diseases. Several important enzymes, such as glutathione peroxidase, that impact organs in the body are selenium dependent.

In fact, selenium is so important that it is the only essential trace element specified in the genetic code.