A little bit of selenium goes a long way. The body only needs a small amount of this mineral, which is why selenium is known as a trace mineral. High doses of selenium supplements can cause a condition called selenosis, which results in hair loss, nail problems, nausea, fatigue, irritability and nerve damage.
Heart Disease
Selenium may be helpful in the prevention of heart disease, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Although studies have produced contradictory results, scientists have found that selenium helps prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which may increase the chances of suffering from a heart attack or stroke. Selenium may also help lower bad cholesterol levels when it is taken in combination with other vitamins and minerals. However, as noted in an article published in 2006 in "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," it is uncertain whether selenium supplements provide these protective measures.
Cancer
Areas of the world that have high soil concentrations of selenium tend to have lower cancer rates, including cancers of the lung, esophagus, bladder, breast, colon and rectum, pancreas, ovary and cervix, according to the American Cancer Society. Selenium is an antioxidant, meaning that it combats the potentially negative effects of substances known as free radicals. Free radicals can increase the chances of developing cancer and other chronic diseases. However, selenium supplementation has not always proven beneficial in cancer prevention or treatment.
Keshan Disease
Keshan disease is caused by severe selenium deficiency. The condition was first discovered in China, where it resulted in several childhood deaths. Keshan disease causes an abnormality of the heart muscles, and has also been linked to Kashin-Beck disease, and myxedematous endemic cretinism, which causes mental retardation. After the discovery of selenium, doctors began giving patients with Keshan disease dietary supplements, which helped decrease the problem. Keshan disease is especially common in patients who have been fed through an IV for long periods of time. It is uncommon in the United States.
Sources
Dietary intake can provide enough selenium for most people. Foods like brewer's yeast, wheat germ, liver, butter, fish, shellfish, garlic, whole grains, sunflower seeds and Brazil nuts are all sources. Because selenium is destroyed during processing, eat a variety of fresh, unprocessed foods to obtain adequate selenium. Consult your doctor to determine whether you may need to take a regular selenium supplement, which may interact with other medications and medical conditions.
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