Zinc and Selenium: The Dynamic Duo for Immune Health

Two Minerals, One Role: Normal Immune Function

When people think about immune-related nutrients, vitamin C usually gets the spotlight. But two trace minerals — zinc and selenium — play an essential part too. Both carry the same authorised EU health claim, and each has its own story. Here is what the science says about this duo.

Zinc: What It Does

Zinc is involved in more than 300 enzymatic reactions in the human body, and a significant number of those relate to immune function. Specifically, zinc:

• Contributes to the normal function of the immune system — an authorised EU health claim, meaning the evidence has been reviewed and approved by EFSA (European Food Safety Authority).
• Plays a role in the development of immune cells such as T-lymphocytes.
• Contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress — another authorised claim.
• Contributes to normal DNA synthesis and protein synthesis.

Where to Find Zinc in Food

Good dietary sources of zinc include oysters, red meat, poultry, beans, nuts, whole grains, and dairy products. One detail matters for plant-based eaters: compounds in beans and whole grains bind zinc, so the body absorbs less of it. Vegetarians and vegans should therefore pay particular attention to their zinc intake.

Selenium: What It Does

Selenium is a trace mineral that the body needs in very small amounts — but those small amounts matter. Selenium:

• Contributes to the normal function of the immune system — an authorised EU health claim.
• Is a component of selenoproteins, including glutathione peroxidases — enzymes involved in protecting cells from oxidative damage.
• Contributes to normal thyroid function.
• Contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress — an authorised claim it shares with zinc.

Where to Find Selenium in Food

Selenium content in food depends on the selenium content of the soil where the food was grown. Good sources include Brazil nuts (one or two per day can meet your needs), fish, eggs, and whole grains. Soil selenium levels vary by region, so the selenium content of the same food can differ depending on where it was produced.

Why Nutri-Leaf Combines Zinc and Selenium

The Nutri-Leaf Immune Complex combines zinc (10 mg, 100% NRV) and selenium (50 µg, 91% NRV) with vitamin C from rosehip extract, echinacea, ginger extract, and L-histidine in one capsule. Each ingredient is declared on the label with its exact amount — no proprietary blends, no hidden dosages.

Who Might Benefit from Checking Their Zinc and Selenium Intake?

• Vegetarians and vegans: plant sources of zinc are less readily absorbed, and selenium intake follows soil quality.
• Older adults: zinc absorption tends to decrease with age.
• Active individuals: regular intense exercise may increase zinc losses through sweat.
• Anyone with a limited diet: if your food variety is restricted for any reason, your mineral intake may be worth a look.

How to Supplement Safely

Both zinc and selenium have established upper tolerable intake levels. More is not better — excessive zinc can interfere with copper absorption, and excessive selenium can be harmful. Stay within recommended daily amounts, and avoid combining this product with additional selenium- or zinc-containing supplements. Nutri-Leaf's Immune Complex provides zinc and selenium at levels designed for safe daily use as part of a balanced diet.

As always, consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication, or managing a health condition.

Discover the Immune Complex — vitamin C, zinc, selenium, echinacea, ginger, and rosehip in one daily capsule.

Food supplements are not a substitute for a balanced and varied diet and a healthy lifestyle.