Selenium is undoubtedly a funny-sounding word. In fact, some might go so far as to say it sounds rather like a bacterial disease! So, you might be surprised to find out that it’s actually an important mineral required by the body for proper function.

Let’s find out a little more about this essential mineral!

What is selenium?

Selenium is especially important for the thyroid, playing a key role in this gland’s ability to produce the thyroid hormone. And given that the thyroid affects just about every organ in the body – regulating weight and energy levels – there’s no denying selenium’s importance. What’s more, selenium plays a role in DNA synthesis and protects the body from infection and damage that oxidative stress may otherwise cause.

Given that our bodies aren’t able to make selenium on their own, we must get our fill from the foods we eat or supplements we take. Foods rich in selenium include seafood (shrimp, salmon, tuna), meats (beef, ham, chicken), eggs, bread, cereals, grains, and Brazil nuts.

So exactly how much selenium does my child need?

The recommended dietary allowance of selenium for children can be found in the below table.

Age	Recommended intake per day
0 - 6 months	15 micrograms
7 - 12 months	20 mcg
1 - 3 years	20 mcg
4 - 8 years	30 mcg
9 -13 years	40 mcg
14 - 18 years	55 mcg

But how will I know if my child isn’t getting enough selenium?

Selenium deficiency is very rare, so it’s not generally something you need to worry about. However, the symptoms include:

Hair loss

Fatigue

Weight gain

Impaired concentration

A compromised immune system

These symptoms are also conducive to thyroid disease. Doctors typically test for selenium deficiency via a blood test or from hair and nail samples. If they find someone to be selenium deficient, they will typically prescribe supplements.

What is selenium, and how much does my child need?

Unii explains this essential mineral for growing children.