[Selenium: its antioxidant effects and issues in selenium supply]

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Environmental Science
• Human Nutrition

Context:

• Review of selenium (Se) supply and deficiency in Hungary.
• Examination of Se content in Hungarian soils, plants, and livestock feed.
• Analysis of international reports on Se deficiency and supplementation.

Purpose:

• To summarize the antioxidant roles of selenium.
• To detail selenium status in Hungary, including soil, plant, and livestock data.
• To assess human health implications of marginal Se deficiency in Hungary.

Summary:

• Hungarian soils exhibit selenium deficiency, affecting plant Se content and necessitating widespread livestock supplementation since the 1980s.
• Limited data exists on Hungarian foodstuffs' Se content; however, European Union food data is reviewed.
• Human plasma/serum Se data is scarce and method-dependent, indicating a marginal Se deficiency in Hungary.

Impact:

• Highlights Hungary as a region with marginal selenium deficiency.
• Suggests a potential role for Se deficiency in disease pathogenesis and treatment outcomes.
• Underscores the need for further research into human Se status and dietary intake in Hungary.