Test library
Selenium Nutritional Test
This blood test measures the level of selenium, an essential trace element, in the blood. It is used to assess selenium status when deficiency or excess exposure is a concern.
Order Selenium Blood Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Selenium Blood Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $179
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The Selenium Blood Test measures the amount of selenium in a blood sample. Selenium is an essential trace element obtained mainly from food, and it supports antioxidant enzymes and normal thyroid and immune function. The test is used to assess selenium status when a clinician suspects low intake, poor absorption, or excess exposure.
What this test measures
Selenium is incorporated into proteins such as glutathione peroxidase, which help protect cells from oxidative damage. Dietary sources include Brazil nuts, seafood, meat, eggs, and grains, and intake varies widely with soil content and diet. Blood selenium reflects recent status, and both low and high levels can be relevant to health.
The test uses a standard blood draw, and results are reported as a concentration, typically in micrograms per liter or micromoles per liter, with laboratory-specific reference ranges. Selenium is sometimes measured as part of a broader nutritional or trace element panel that includes zinc, copper, and other markers. Whole blood or serum may be used depending on the laboratory.
People may order this test when nutritional deficiency is suspected, when absorption problems are being evaluated, or when excessive intake from supplements or environmental exposure is a concern. It is not a routine screening test for everyone. A qualified healthcare provider interprets the result with diet, supplements, and clinical context.
- Serum selenium concentration
- Whole blood selenium when included
- Selenium reported in micrograms per liter
- Glutathione peroxidase activity when included
- Zinc when a trace element panel is ordered
- Copper when a trace element panel is ordered
- Related nutritional markers when included
Why people order this test
- Assess selenium status when dietary intake may be low
- Evaluate possible deficiency with malabsorption or restricted diets
- Check for excess intake from supplements or environmental exposure
- Add selenium to a broader trace element or nutritional panel
- Support the assessment of antioxidant and thyroid-related nutrient status
How to prepare
No special fasting is usually required, though the ordering clinician may request it along with other tests in a panel. Tell the lab about supplements and diet as directed, and follow the lab's routine instructions for the blood draw.
Understanding your results
Results are typically available within one to three business days. Levels below or above the laboratory's reference range indicate that selenium status may need attention, and the finding is interpreted with diet, supplements, and other clinical information. A qualified healthcare provider explains what the result means for the individual.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What foods contain selenium?
Brazil nuts, seafood, meat, eggs, and grains are common sources, though the amount in plant foods depends on the soil where they are grown.
Can selenium levels be too high?
Yes. Excess intake, often from supplements, can raise blood levels. A clinician should be told about supplement use when this test is ordered.
Is selenium related to thyroid function?
Selenium supports enzymes involved in thyroid hormone metabolism, so status is sometimes assessed alongside thyroid testing. A clinician interprets the combination.
Do I need to fast?
Fasting is often not required for this test, but it may be requested if other tests in the same panel need it. Follow the ordering clinician's instructions.
How often should selenium be checked?
There is no single schedule. The appropriate interval depends on why the test is ordered and is best decided by a qualified healthcare provider.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
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