Selenium

Selenium test measures its amount in the blood. Selenium is an essential mineral which acts as an antioxidant for the body. It has shown a role in metabolism, the immune system & thyroid gland and is also advocated to have anticancer properties. Signs of selenium deficiency include fatigue, muscle weakness, muscle wasting, and heart problems. Selenium deficiency is also related to infertility in males. This test also helps to check the selenium levels in the body in patients who are on replacement therapy. Symptoms of selenium toxicity include nausea, gastrointestinal problems, garlic breath, neurological problems, pulmonary edema, and liver cirrhosis. Selenium is present in many foods esp. seafood, lean meat, pasta, rice, eggs, oatmeal & baked beans.