Tag: Selenite

Did you know the human body absorbs different forms of selenium at vastly different rates, a disparity that can dramatically impact its effectiveness? Understanding what is the best absorbable form of selenium is crucial for anyone looking to supplement this essential mineral and ensure they are getting the most nutritional value for their effort and money.

Despite their similar-sounding names, selenium and selenite are not the same thing, a point of frequent confusion for consumers regarding health supplements and mineralogy. Selenium is an essential trace element, while 'selenite' can refer to a naturally occurring mineral or an inorganic chemical compound used as a selenium source. It is vital to understand these differences, as they impact everything from dietary intake to industrial applications.

According to the National Institutes of Health, selenium is an essential trace element for human health, and its +4 oxidation state, known as selenite, plays a vital role as an antioxidant in the body. This form of selenium is also widely utilized in industrial processes and environmental technologies due to its unique chemical properties.

Organic forms of selenium, particularly selenomethionine, are absorbed by the body more efficiently than inorganic forms, with studies showing an absorption rate of over 90% for selenomethionine compared to about 50% for selenite. Understanding this difference is key when asking, what is the best kind of selenium for your health, as the right choice depends on your specific needs for absorption and bodily storage.