Selenium: benefits and risks
Schomburg, L.; Koehrle, J.
MMW Fortschritte der Medizin 149(8): 34-36
2007
ISSN/ISBN: 1438-3276 PMID: 17615698 Document Number: 614350
Current clinical studies have shown that increased selenium intake is associated with health benefits. However, the present emphasis should be on diagnosing and treating selenium deficiency resulting from a poor diet or disease. This article describes well-defined risk groups with a demonstrably elevated selenium requirement, and these patients must be provided with appropriate supplementation. On account of the toxic potential of this element, however, uncontrolled self-medication is not recommended. Until further studies have confirmed the positive effect of selenium supplementation, this highly potent substance must be applied only with great caution and in specific situations.