The association between selenium and bone health: a meta-analysis.

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Biochemistry
• Bone Metabolism
• Trace Element Research

Background:

• Previous research suggests a role for selenium in bone health, but findings are inconsistent.
• The specific impact of selenium status on bone mineral density (BMD), osteoporosis (OP), and fracture risk requires clarification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a meta-analysis to elucidate the association between selenium status (dietary intake and serum levels) and bone health indicators.
• To consolidate evidence on selenium's relationship with BMD, OP, and fracture risk.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library up to November 15, 2022.
• Inclusion of 19 studies correlating selenium with BMD, OP, or fracture.
• Meta-analysis using fixed-effect or random-effect models based on heterogeneity to assess associations.

Main Results:

• A positive association was found between dietary selenium intake and serum selenium levels with BMD.
• Higher selenium intake was linked to a lower risk of OP, and OP patients had lower serum selenium.
• Increased dietary selenium intake correlated with a reduced risk of hip fracture.

Conclusions:

• Selenium status is positively associated with BMD and inversely associated with OP.
• Dietary selenium intake shows a negative association with hip fracture risk.
• Further research is needed to explore the causality and therapeutic potential of selenium in OP.