What form of selenium is most effective against viruses?

Selenocysteine — is the most biologically active form of selenium, as it is directly incorporated into the composition of selenium-containing enzymes (selenoproteins), such as glutathione peroxidase and thioredoxin reductase. They play an important role in protecting the body from oxidative stress and in antiviral activity.

This form is the most effective in antioxidant and immunomodulatory protection.

Selenomethionine — is also a bioavailable form of selenium, but to a greater extent, it is used by the body as a depot (reserve) of selenium. It can be incorporated into proteins instead of methionine and later used for the synthesis of selenocysteine as needed.

Selenomethionine is effective but less immediate in antioxidant protection compared to selenocysteine.

When strictly speaking about antiviral effectiveness — in cases of acute deficiency and for rapid immune support, selenocysteine is preferable, as it is immediately available for work in enzyme composition.

How Selenium Fights Viruses:

1. Strengthens the immune response by activating NK cells, macrophages, and lymphocytes.

2. Inhibits viral replication by reducing the activity of viral enzymes.

3. Prevents viral mutations: selenium deficiency leads to mutations, increasing virulence (proven on Coxsackie virus and influenza).

4. Blocks the cytokine storm through the activation of GPx and other antioxidant enzymes.

5. Reduces inflammation levels by acting as an immunomodulator.