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Selenium utilization during human lactation by use of stable-isotope tracers
A R Mangels1, P B Moser-Veillon, K Y Patterson
1Department of Human Nutrition and Food Systems, University of Maryland, College Park 20742.
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
|October 1, 1990
Summary
Selenomethionine (SeMet) and selenite utilization were studied in women. SeMet showed higher absorption and plasma levels than selenite, with increased selenium requirements during lactation primarily due to milk losses.
Area of Science:
- Human Nutrition
- Trace Element Metabolism
Background:
- Selenium is an essential trace element crucial for various physiological functions.
- Understanding selenium bioavailability from different sources is vital for optimizing nutritional status.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the utilization of selenomethionine (SeMet) and selenite in lactating, nonlactating, and never-pregnant women.
- To determine how pregnancy and lactation status affect selenium absorption, distribution, and retention.
Main Methods:
- Stable-isotope tracers were used to track selenomethionine (SeMet) and selenite metabolism.
- Participants included six lactating, six nonlactating, and seven never-pregnant women.
Main Results:
- Selenium from SeMet was significantly more absorbed and appeared in plasma compared to selenite across all groups.
- Milk selenium content was higher from absorbed SeMet than from selenite.
- Urinary excretion patterns differed, with lactating women showing similar urinary selenium from both sources, unlike nonlactating and never-pregnant women.
Conclusions:
- Selenomethionine is generally better absorbed and retained than selenite.
- Lactating women exhibit increased selenium requirements, primarily due to losses through milk.
- Selenium status does not significantly alter SeMet absorption and retention in lactating women compared to others.