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Selenium containing dietary supplements: Market-, efficacy- and risk analysis
1Institute of Pharmacology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, Hannover D-30625, Germany.
Summary
Selenium supplements vary widely in dosage and labeling, posing risks of overdose and intoxication. Consumers should avoid supplementation without a diagnosed deficiency due to insufficient regulation and potential health hazards.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Public Health
- Regulatory Affairs
Background:
- Growing public interest in dietary supplements, particularly selenium.
- Widespread consumption of selenium supplements without critical evaluation of benefits versus risks.
- Need to assess health impacts and poisoning risks associated with selenium intake.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between selenium-containing dietary supplements and proven health benefits.
- To evaluate the risks of selenium poisoning from excessive intake.
- To compare selenium supplements from Germany and the U.S. regarding composition, dosage, price, and labeling.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 70 selenium supplements from Germany and the U.S. (composition, dosage, price, labeling).
- Graphical evaluation of product data.
- Comprehensive literature review on legal aspects, selenium biochemistry, food content, and intoxication data.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in dosage between U.S. (median 200 µg) and German (median 150 µg) supplements.
- German recommendations advise against exceeding 45 µg daily, highlighting potential overdose risks.
- Discrepancies in active ingredient forms, labeling clarity, and health claims; documented cases of intoxication indicate insufficient regulation.
Conclusions:
- Stricter regulatory measures are essential for consumer protection regarding selenium supplements.
- Supplementation is not recommended without a medically diagnosed selenium deficiency.
- Informed consumers are vulnerable to misleading marketing, prioritizing economic profit over safety.
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