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Observed genes
Polygenic score
Influential genes: CBS
The CBS gene has been associated with selenium metabolism based on a GWAS study.
About Selenium
Selenium is nutritionally essential mineral that is crucial for reproduction, thyroid hormones and DNA synthesis and plays an important role for the immune system and protection from infections. Foods rich in animal protein are generally good sources of selenium.
What happens if you don't get enough?
Severe selenium deficiency is associated with two main diseases: Keshan disease, a heart disease, as well as Kashin-Beck disease, a kind of osteoarthritis. Both conditions are found mainly in Asian regions. It can also negatively affect the thyroid gland, the immune system, and the quality of semen.
Recommendations
Selenium is found in many foods including Brazil nuts, tuna, beef, eggs, garlic, mushrooms, sunflower seeds and more. Dietary supplements with selenium are also available, often in combination with vitamins C and E. Remember, however, that dietary supplements can never fully replace food.
Recommendations
Selenium is found in many foods including Brazil nuts, tuna, beef, eggs, garlic, mushrooms, sunflower seeds and more. Dietary supplements with selenium are also available, often in combination with vitamins C and E. Remember, however, that dietary supplements can never fully replace food.
