Selenium Boosts Your Mood

Rather than tell you that selenium can improve mild or moderate depression, I'd rather say that selenium can help put you in a good mood.

Selenium, a mineral found in soil, water, and some foods, has antioxidant properties that help the body prevent cellular damage from free radicals, according to Dr. Andrew Weil.

It also helps support a strong immune system, regulates thyroid function, and may help reduce the risk of prostate and secondary cancers. And if that's not enough it can play a role in the prevention of cataracts and heart disease.

Foods rich in selenium:

* Seafood (oysters, clams, sardines, crab, saltwater fish and freshwater fish)
* Nuts and seeds (particularly Brazil nuts)
* Lean meat (lean beef and beef, skinless chicken and turkey)
* Whole grains (whole-grain pasta, brown rice, oatmeal, etc.)
* Beans/legumes
* Low-fat dairy products