Selenium Supplements

Selenium is one of those trace minerals that is needed by the human body in very small amounts. It is a non-metal with an atomic number of 34 and a chemical symbol 'Se'. Selenium is usually found in soil and humans derive this mineral from plant and animal matter. Studies show that an adult human being requires around 50 micrograms of selenium per day. While plants absorb this mineral directly from the soil, animals get it indirectly from plants. So, selenium levels of the soil determine the amount of this mineral in plants. If the soil is deficient in this mineral, the plants that grow in that region will have no selenium and this in turn affects the people, who inhabit the place. This leads to selenium deficiency. The body's inability to absorb this mineral is another reason for selenium deficiency. In such cases, selenium supplements may be prescribed.

More About Selenium Supplements

Now, you have a basic idea about what is selenium and how people develop deficiency of this mineral. While a diet that lacks selenium can be the reason behind the deficiency, some medical conditions, especially gastrointestinal disorders like, Crohn's disease, can also cause the condition. Even though selenium deficiency is very rare, it can cause some serious symptoms, as this trace mineral has a very vital role in various chemical reactions inside the body. Selenium deficiency is a condition that is not studied well and it is said that prolonged deficiency of this mineral may cause extreme fatigue, mental slowing, muscle weakness and pain, hair or skin discoloration and even miscarriage. It is also believed to be the causal agent for Keshan disease, hypothyroidism and Kashin-Beck's disease. So, selenium supplements are prescribed for those with deficiency of this mineral. Even some medical conditions are treated with these supplements.

Selenium supplements come in many different forms like tablets, capsules and even as extended-release tablets. It is always better to increase the intake of selenium containing foods like tuna, mushrooms, Brazil nuts, beef, cod, oats, eggs, cheddar, walnuts, etc. instead of resorting to supplements. However, if you want to use supplements, check out the daily requirement that may vary based on different factors like gender, age, medical condition, health condition, pregnancy, breastfeeding, etc. Individual dosage has to be determined on the basis of these factors. The dosage has to be followed strictly, as high levels of selenium in the body may lead to toxicity. Never use these supplements without seeking the opinion of your doctor.

Selenium Supplement Benefits and Side Effects

As mentioned above, small amount of selenium is essential for the smooth functioning of the human body and its deficiency may cause some minor to major symptoms. Apart from that, some studies claim that selenium, being an antioxidant, is beneficial in preventing heart diseases and cancer. But, there is no scientific backing for these claims. Side effects of selenium supplements include toxicity caused by high levels of this mineral in the human body. Otherwise called selenosis, this condition is said to be caused by intake of five times the normal dietary intake of selenium. Selenium toxicity symptoms include gastrointestinal problems (diarrhea), bad breath (garlic odor), loss of finger nails, skin problems (itching), metallic taste in mouth, irritability and weakness. These symptoms have to be treated at the earliest, so as to avoid complications like cardiovascular problems and liver damage.

In short, selenium supplement needs to be taken as per the instructions of your doctor and you have to stick to the prescribed dosage. It is also important to inform your doctor about your medical conditions and the current medications as well. This is more applicable for those with kidney and stomach problems. So, never use such supplements without consulting a doctor and if he prescribes these supplements, use it properly.