Unless you are having medical problems, you typically do not give much thought to organs responsible for daily functioning like the pancreas. Taking vitamins and minerals can be beneficial to keep these organs healthy. Selenium is an important mineral for health, and some individuals may benefit from selenium supplements. However, before taking these supplements, talk with your doctor to make sure they are safe and appropriate for you.
Selenium
Staying healthy requires small amounts of selenium and most people get adequate amounts of this mineral through diet alone. The body incorporates selenium into proteins that are antioxidants that help protect cells from free-radical damage, according to the National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. Selenoproteins also aid in immune system functioning and help maintain healthy thyroid functioning. Dietary sources of selenium include tuna, beef, eggs, oatmeal, walnuts, Brazil nuts, cheddar cheese and rice. Deficiencies are rare, and individuals at risk for a selenium deficiency usually have a gastrointestinal problem like Crohn's disease. Supplementation is usually not necessary; however, if you are concerned, talk with your doctor about whether you need to take selenium supplements and what constitutes appropriate dosage.
The Pancreas
The pancreas is a gland that is part of the digestive system, located between your stomach and spine. It is actually two glands: the exocrine pancreas and the endocrine pancreas. The exocrine gland produces substances into the intestines, while the endocrine gland secretes substances into the pancreas, explains Pancreas.org. The exocrine pancreas is responsible for digestive enzymes that help break down food so the body can absorb the nutrients. This organ also makes insulin and glucagon, hormones that help control blood sugar levels, in the endocrine pancreas.
Selenium's Effect on the Pancreas
Selenium may exert preventive effects against various cancers, including pancreatic cancer, according to a 2011 study by Sanmartin, et al., published in "Current Cancer Drug Therapies." It is thought that selenium helps regulate kinases, which are enzymes that help prevent disease occurrence and tumor formation. Another study, published in "FEBS Letters" in 2008, found that selenium increased insulin secretion in pancreatic islet cells and may improve pancreatic cell function. If you have problems with your pancreas, talk with your doctor about whether selenium supplements may benefit you.
Considerations
If you have a pancreatic condition, selenium is not a replacement for any treatments you have been prescribed. It is a supplement meant to improve overall health that may benefit pancreatic functioning. Do not take more selenium than is recommended, because too much can cause toxicity and a condition called selenosis. Symptoms of selenosis can include stomach upset, hair loss, fatigue, nerve damage and irritability, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements.
References
- National Institutes of Health - Office of Dietary Supplements: Selenium
- Pancreas: What is the Pancreas?
- "Current Cancer Drug Targets"; Kinase Regulation by Sulfur and Selenium Containing Compounds; C. Sanmartin, et al.; September 2011
- "FEBS Letters"; Selenium Stimulates Pancreatic Beta-Cell Gene Expression and Enhances Islet Function; S.C. Campbell, et al.; June 2008
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