What Are the Uses of Selenomethionine?
Selenomethionine (SeMet) is one of the major natural forms of selenium. This nutrient is found in many foods, including nuts, whole grains, meat, eggs and dairy products. Selenomethionine is readily available as a dietary supplement. Nutritionists have proposed that selenomethionine, as an organic form of selenium, is more readily absorbed by the body than the inorganic form of selenite. In a clinical trial it was determined that selenomethionine was absorbed 19% better than selenite. As a form of selenium, SeMet is important for normal thyroid function. It plays a role in reproduction, DNA production and protection of the body from infection. It has also been studied for heart and other health benefits. Selenomethionine binds to proteins in the body to form antioxidants called selenoproteins. These compounds help protect against free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage the cells in your body. This article looks at...