Selenium, Se: 10 Research-Backed Benefits & 2 Side-Effects
Selenium is classified as a trace mineral. It has many health benefits.
Selenium contributes to growth, supports healthy muscle activity, reproductive organs, reduces the toxicity of certain elements such as mercury, supports the immune system, and can even delay the spread of certain viruses. It also ensures the proper functioning of the thyroid gland.
But the most important role of selenium is its antioxidant effect. Because the antioxidant effect of selenium can prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, reduce inflammation, strengthen the immune system, and help protect the body against oxidative stress.
In large doses, selenium can be harmful. Getting too much selenium over time can cause selenium poisoning.
Increased dietary selenium intake is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
In this article, we list claims of potential benefits and/or side-effects of selenium, se that we have found research on. Every claim is listed with all of its sources. We get these claims from our Nutrition Tool.
We also have an article about selenium, se named What Is Selenium & What Foods Can I Find It In? if you're interested in learning more.
Table of Contents
Research-Backed Beneficial Claims Of Selenium, Se
These are some of the potential research-backed health benefits of selenium, se.
1. Cancer
Selenium - Cancer
About this claim
Cancer is when abnormal cells divide without control in your body, making you ill. Research shows that some nutrients can play a vital role in the treatment of various cancers, but also as one prevention method.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 53 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
2. Cell Health
Selenium - Cell Health
About this claim
A cell is the smallest unit of life. They provide structure for the body, taking nutrients from food, and carry out functions. Our cells require nutrients to function optimally. According to research, some specific nutrients can beneficially affect your cells. Healthy cells are vital for your overall health.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 36 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
3. Child Growth
Selenium - Child Growth
About this claim
Children grow from birth to the ages of 15-17. Evidence through research shows that some nutrients may help your child reach their full growth potential.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 26 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
4. Chronic Diseases
Selenium - Chronic Diseases
About this claim
Common chronic diseases are heart disease and stroke, cancer, and diabetes. Nutrition is vital in both prevention and giving aid during ongoing sickness, according to research.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 11 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
5. Hormones
Selenium - Hormones
About this claim
Keeping your hormones healthy is key to an overall good health. Research is telling us about key nutrients that can help us achieve healthy hormones in balance.
Research sources for this claim
- Current Knowledge on the Importance of Selenium in Food for Living Organisms: A Review ◳
- Ensures the proper functioning of the thyroid gland.
- A prospective study of dietary selenium intake and risk of type 2 diabetes ◳
- Thyroid hormone metabolism
- The role of selenium in nutrition – A review ◳
- Essential for normal thyroid function
You are welcome to explore 12 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
6. Immune System
Selenium - Immune System
About this claim
Our body's immune system protects us from bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances. A well-functioning immune system is critical for survival. Consuming enough right nutrients in your diet is required for the health and function of all immune cells, according to research. Specific nutrients might help with modulating your immune system for it to work at its best.
Research sources for this claim
- A prospective study of dietary selenium intake and risk of type 2 diabetes ◳
- The role of selenium in nutrition – A review ◳
You are welcome to explore 34 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
7. Inflammation
Selenium - Inflammation
About this claim
Consuming foods that are bad for you can cause chronic inflammations. Research shows some nutrients that might be beneficial for you when battling inflammation. Some nutrients possess inhibitory and anti-inflammatory functions.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 47 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
8. Muscles Health
Selenium - Muscles Health
About this claim
Keeping your muscles healthy will help you in your everyday life, even when aging. Some nutrients, according to research, may be beneficial in your quest to keep your muscles healthy and strong
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 17 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
9. Oxidative Stress
Selenium - Oxidative Stress
About this claim
Oxidative stress is an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body. It can lead to cell and tissue damage. Several studies have shown that some nutrients might be beneficial in keeping the balance between the free radicals and antioxidants in the body.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 18 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
10. Reproduction
Selenium - Reproduction
About this claim
Reproduction is when organisms replicate themselves. Research shows that some nutrients can be beneficial in the process of reproduction.
Research sources for this claim
- A prospective study of dietary selenium intake and risk of type 2 diabetes ◳
- The role of selenium in nutrition – A review ◳
You are welcome to explore 9 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
Research-Backed Side-Effects Of Selenium, Se
These are some of the potential research-backed side-effects of selenium, se.
1. Diabetes And Insulin Resistance
Selenium - Diabetes And Insulin Resistance
About this claim
Diabetes and insulin resistance are both medical conditions. According to research, some nutrients raise your glucose levels, which are bad for you, especially if you have diabetes or are insulin resistant.
Research sources for this claim
- A prospective study of dietary selenium intake and risk of type 2 diabetes ◳
- Some increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
You are welcome to explore 24 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
2. Toxicity Of Nutrients
Selenium - Toxicity Of Nutrients
About this claim
Some micronutrients might become toxic for you if taken too much during a long period in time. It is more common if taking supplements. Also, some fatty acids have the ability to become toxic to various degrees.
Research sources for this claim
- Current Knowledge on the Importance of Selenium in Food for Living Organisms: A Review ◳
- When overused
You are welcome to explore 5 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.