Selenium and health
Rasmussen, L.B.; Mejborn, H.; Andersen, N.L.; Dragsted, L.O.; Krogholm, K.S.; Larsen, E.H.; Ovesen, L.F.; Tjønneland, A.M.
Ugeskrift for Laeger 168(39): 3311-3313
2006
ISSN/ISBN: 1603-6824 PMID: 17032595 Document Number: 603782
Selenium is an essential micronutrient. The average selenium intake in Danish adults is close to the recommended level of 40-50 mg/day. There is no scientific documentation showing that an increased selenium intake will result in disease prevention. However, a preventive effect on some cancers and hearth disease cannot be ruled out. Fortification of foods via increased selenium content in fertilizers is a possible way of increasing selenium intake. The tolerable upper intake level of 60 mg/day in children 1-3 years old must not be exceeded, which makes fortification difficult.