This powerful antioxidant plays a crucial role in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are closely linked to Parkinson’s Disease progression.
Why Selenium Is Essential for Brain Health in Parkinson’s Disease
Selenium is a trace mineral that the body needs in small amounts, but its impact on neurological function is profound. It is a key component of glutathione peroxidase, an antioxidant enzyme that protects brain cells from oxidative damage. Dopamine, the neurotransmitter that’s deficient in Parkinson’s Disease, shares biochemical pathways with thyroxine (T4), the inactive form of thyroid hormone.
For individuals with Parkinson’s Disease, selenium is especially important because it helps to:
✅ Reduce oxidative stress, slowing down the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons.
✅ Regulate inflammation, which is linked to neurodegeneration.
✅ Support immune function, enhancing the body’s ability to fight infections and chronic diseases.
✅ Protect mitochondria, ensuring proper energy production within brain cells.
Research suggests that low selenium levels may contribute to cognitive decline and increased inflammation, making it essential for neuroprotection and long-term brain health.
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How Selenium Reduces Oxidative Stress in Parkinson’s Disease
One of the primary drivers of Parkinson’s Disease progression is oxidative stress, a condition where harmful molecules, called free radicals, damage brain cells. Selenium’s antioxidant properties help neutralise these free radicals, reducing cellular damage and inflammation.
Since dopamine-producing neurons are particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress, selenium plays a protective role in maintaining brain function and slowing disease progression.
Ensuring you have adequate selenium intake can support brain health and improve overall well-being.
Best Dietary Sources of Selenium
Although selenium is found in a variety of foods, some sources are richer than others. Here are the top selenium-rich foods to incorporate into your diet:
🥜 Brazil nuts – The highest natural source of selenium; just 1-2 nuts per day provide the recommended daily intake.
🐟 Wild-caught salmon & sardines – Provide selenium and omega-3 fatty acids for brain health.
🍳 Eggs – A great source of selenium, protein, and choline.
🥩 Grass-fed beef & turkey – Contain moderate amounts of selenium.
🌾 Whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, oats) – Provide plant-based selenium along with fibre.
🥦 Spinach, mushrooms, and sunflower seeds – Good vegetarian sources of selenium.
Incorporating these selenium-rich foods into your daily meals can help reduce oxidative stress and support cognitive function.
Spring Recipe: Selenium-Boosting Salmon & Quinoa Bowl
Ingredients:
- 1 wild-caught salmon fillet (rich in selenium & omega-3s)
- ½ cup quinoa (contains plant-based selenium)
- 1 handful spinach (provides fibre & antioxidants)
- 2 Brazil nuts, chopped (selenium-packed superfood!)
- ½ avocado, sliced (healthy fats & brain support)
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Sea salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
- Pan-sear the salmon for 3–4 minutes per side.
- Assemble the bowl with quinoa, spinach, and avocado.
- Top with the salmon, drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with chopped Brazil nuts for a delicious selenium-rich meal.
Enjoy a meal designed to support brain health and fight oxidative stress!
Book Your Discovery Call for Personalised Nutrition Support
If you’re looking to optimise your brain health and reduce inflammation, ensuring you have the right selenium intake can make a big difference. Through nutrient testing and targeted dietary strategies, I help clients improve neurological function and overall well-being.
