Selenium is an essential trace mineral that plays a key role in immune function, antioxidant defense, and cell protection. Adequate selenium may help the body resist infection and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including some forms of cancer and heart disease.
An article in the British Medical Journal (Feb 8, 1997;314:387–388) described health problems caused by severe selenium deficiency, including Kashin-Beck disease (a deforming arthritis) and Keshan disease (a form of cardiomyopathy). Even mild deficiency was linked to a higher risk of atherosclerosis, heart disease, and cancer. The article cited a U.S. study in which cancer mortality was reduced by 50 % among participants receiving 200 µg of selenium daily.
A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in Urologic Clinics of North America (2002;29:67–70) tested 200 µg/day of selenium in individuals with a history of non-melanoma skin cancer. While selenium did not prevent new skin cancers, it was associated with a 63 % lower incidence of prostate cancer, 58 % lower colorectal cancer, and 46 % lower lung cancer, with 50 % fewer overall cancer deaths compared to placebo. Other studies show high selenium levels lower the risk of bladder cancer.
Another study drawn from the General Population Trial in Linxian, China (over 29,000 participants) found that higher selenium levels were associated with lower mortality from esophageal and gastric cancers, as well as a lower risk of death from heart disease over 15 years.
Together, these studies suggest that maintaining healthy selenium status may play a protective role against several major chronic diseases.
Disclaimer: For educational purposes only.
