Zinc and Selenium work great together, working with what is known in biology as a synergistic effect. The synergistic effect is when the interaction between chemical substances cause an effect that is greater than the sum of the individual effect of any of the substances.

First, zinc promotes immunity through direct, indirect and antioxidants mechanisms, as it is crucial for the development and correct functioning of cells that are responsible for the body’s immunity such as macrophages, large cells found in the tissues or as white blood cells when an infection occurs. When you are in deficiency of zinc, your body isn’t able to produce healthy new cells, leading to a lower immune system thanks to a lower amount of cells fighting viruses and infections. Additionally, zinc deficiency not only compromises immunity but also shifts the immune system towards an inflammatory state.

Then we have selenium, which works as an important antioxidant in the body, reducing inflammation and enhancing immunity, and it also prevents the mutation of viruses and the appearance and new high-pathogenic strains. Although a selenium deficiency is rare and mostly seen on patients over 60 years old, it is important to make sure to get a proper intake and that the body correctly absorbs it if you don’t want to lose the immune benefits of it.