Thyroid wellness: the importance of selenium

What is thyroid

The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the level of the larynx, in front of the trachea. This important gland releases hormones, called thyroid hormones, which help regulate important functions of the human body, among them, all metabolic functions.

Main thyroid imbalances

Without the right amount of thyroid hormones, the body's natural functions begin to slow down or speed up. In particular, if the thyroid gland produces too many hormones, the condition of hyperthyroidism is created; if it produces too few, the very frequent condition of hypothyroidism is created. The causes may depend on various factors; diagnosis and treatment are the responsibility of the treating physician or endocrinologist.

Goitre and nodules also represent disorders of this gland: Goitre is an increase in the volume of the thyroid gland; if it is a small increase, as in most cases, this condition may not cause discomfort, but in some cases it may lead to breathing and swallowing disorders. Nodules are solid or fluid-filled formations created inside the gland. Then there are diseases related to immunological problems, define thyroiditis

Healthy thyroid habits

For a healthy thyroid gland and to prevent hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism and thyroiditis, it is important to follow a varied and balanced diet, so as to avoid deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, in particular iodine and selenium. 

It is also good to reduce salt consumption and limit sugar, which inflames the body. Other foods with a pro-inflammatory effect should also be consumed in moderation: foods containing gluten, milk and dairy products, sausages, all foods processed by the food industry. 

Among drinks, it is best to minimise coffee and alcohol consumption. 

It is important to drink adequately (water or tea and herbal teas with a detoxifying effect), pay attention to chronic stress, take care of good bowel function, exercise regularly. 

Finally, recent studies suggest that air pollution and electromagnetic pollution can cause thyroid problems. 

Thyroid and selenium

Selenium is a mineral that helps protect cells from oxidative stress. Among many important functions, it plays a regulatory role in the synthesis of thyroid hormones and helps protect against cardiovascular disorders. Since the amount of selenium in food depends on the presence of this mineral in the soil, it is important to vary one's diet, including choosing foods enriched with this mineral or, on the advice of a doctor, using a supplement of this mineral.

Sources and insights

• PubMed, The role of selenium in thyroid gland pathophysiology
• Dott. Ivo Bianchi, La salute della tiroide, Edizioni Il Punto d’Incontro, 2021
• PubMed, Role of iodine, selenium and other micronutrients in thyroid function and disorders
• PubMed, Thyroid Function: a Target for Endocrine Disruptors, Air Pollution, and Radiofrequencies
• ISS istituto Superiore di Sanità, Selenio