Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by seizures; it occurs when electrical signals in the brain are disturbed. The U.K. National Health Service's website, NHS Choices notes that although epilepsy is a long-term condition, anti-epileptic drugs can usually control it. The mineral selenium might also play a role in epilepsy treatment, although scientific evidence highlighting its benefits is limited. You shouldn't use selenium in place of anti-epileptic drugs and should consult your doctor before adding a selenium supplement to your treatment plan.
Properties
Selenium is a trace mineral used by the body to make proteins, known as selenoproteins, which protect cells from free radical damage. It might also play a role in the treatment of several medical conditions including cancer, cardiovascular disease and rheumatoid arthritis. An article published in the January 2005 issue of the medical journal, "Revista de Neurologica" notes that anti-epileptic drugs deplete total body selenium store, thus making the body more vulnerable to free radical damage.
Research
Clinical studies evaluating the effect of selenium supplementation on epilepsy are lacking, so it is difficult to determine whether taking supplemental selenium is beneficial or not. However, an article published in the July 2004 issue of "Brain Research Reviews" notes that selenium plays an important role in maintaining neurological function, adding that inadequate levels of inadequate levels of selenium in the brain might lead to spontaneous seizures.
Sources and Administration
Foods that contain selenium include meats, seafood, nuts and whole grains. It is also available as a dietary supplement in pills or capsules. Since selenium is a not a proven epilepsy treatment, guidance regarding an appropriate dose is lacking, although your doctor or pharmacist may be able to advise you.
Considerations
The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center notes that taking more than 1000 micrograms of selenium per day might lead to chronic selenosis, a condition marked by symptoms including hair loss, irritability, dermatitis, muscle weakness and fatigue. High doses of selenium might also reduce the amount of vitamin C your body is able to absorb. It might also interact with medications including anticoagulants, cholesterol-lowering drugs and sedatives. Seek medical advice before using a selenium supplement if you are taking any of these medications.
References
- NHS Choices: Epilepsy
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Selenium; May 19, 2011
- "Revista de Neurologica"; Changes in Selenium Levels in Epilepsy; A.M. Gutiérrez-Alvarez; January 2005
- "Brain Research Reviews"; Selenium and Brain Function: A Poorly Recognized Liaison; U. Schweizer, et al.; July 2004
- MedlinePlus; Selenium; May 9, 2011
