Micronutrients & recovery
Selenium deficiency impairs immune function, increases susceptibility to infections (including HIV and COVID-19), and is linked to cardiovascular diseases such as Keshan disease and myocardial infarction.
Ensure adequate selenium intake through diet (e.g., Brazil nuts, seafood, meat) to support immune function and cardiovascular health. The recommended daily allowance for adults is 55 µg. Avoid excessive supplementation beyond 400 µg/day due to toxicity risks.
There is also evidence that Se deficiency weakens the immune system [9] and affects the proper functioning of the nervous system [10]. ... Se deficiency can cause or induce diseases such as Keshan and Kashin-Beck diseases [35]. Furthermore, Se deficiency is associated with muscle necrosis, hypothyroidism, cardio-cerebrovascular disease, male infertility, increased incidence of various cancer, and an improved immune system [21,36]. Se deficiency has supposed to be linked also to infections such as Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) [37].
Why this rating
The paper is a review citing various studies (murine, cell-based, human observational), but notes that 'preliminary results of studies conducted on animal models may not truly reflect the effectiveness'.
Source
Biological Activity of Selenium and Its Impact on Human Health
Giuseppe Genchi et al. · International Journal of Molecular Sciences · 2023
DOI 10.3390/ijms24032633
More from this paper
- Selenium's biological activity is primarily mediated through its incorporation into selenoproteins (containing selenocysteine), which support antioxidant defense systems, thyroid hormone metabolism, and neuroprotection.Good
- Excessive selenium intake (above nutritional levels) is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia.Moderate
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