Selenium as an important factor in various disease states - a review

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Biochemistry
• Toxicology

Background:

• Selenium (Se) is an essential trace mineral with significant health benefits for humans and animals.
• Both selenium deficiency and excess can be detrimental, influenced by chemical form, supplementation duration, and individual health status.
• Low soil and food content often lead to insufficient selenium coverage in diets.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated review of selenium (Se) and its various forms.
• To elucidate the health effects of selenium in humans and animals.
• To highlight selenium's role in physiological homeostasis and its emerging therapeutic potential.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing research on selenium.
• Analysis of data regarding selenium's chemical forms and bioavailability.
• Synthesis of information on selenium's impact on physiological processes and health outcomes.

Main Results:

• Selenium is critical for maintaining immune, endocrine, metabolic, and cellular homeostasis.
• The body's physiological balance can be supported by adequate organically active selenium.
• Emerging research indicates selenium as a promising therapeutic agent for various health disorders.

Conclusions:

• Optimizing selenium intake through appropriate forms and dosages is essential for preventing both deficiency and toxicity.
• Selenium plays a multifaceted role in maintaining overall health and physiological balance.
• Further research into selenium's therapeutic applications is warranted due to its promising potential.