Final answer:
Salmon is an excellent source of selenium, which is important for antioxidant function and tissue respiration.
Step-by-step explanation:
The direct answer to the student's question is: a) Salmon is an excellent source of selenium.
An explanation for why salmon is a good source of selenium: Selenium is essential for various bodily functions, including acting as an antioxidant and playing a role in tissue respiration. It is typically found in high concentrations in certain types of organ meats, seafood, and nuts. Although not listed in the common sources for selenium, salmon, being a type of seafood, is well-known for its nutrient-rich profile, including being a source of selenium. Other dietary sources rich in selenium can include kidney cortex, pancreas, pituitary, and liver, but among the options provided (salmon, kiwi, potato, drinking water), salmon has the highest concentration of selenium. It is absorbed mainly in the duodenum and distributed throughout the body, particularly in the liver, skin, and muscles. It can be found in the cells as selenocystine and selenomethionine.