TREATMENT DATABASE

Selenium is a trace mineral found in the soil, and in foods such as lobster, tuna, shrimp, oysters, fish, brown rice, garlic, whole grains, sesame seeds, and mushrooms. Although it is needed in only small amounts, selenium performs an important role in kidney, spleen, pancreas and liver function, as well as in reproduction. In men, about half of the body's selenium is concentrated in the testes. Selenium forms a component of glutathione peroxidase, the body's most prolific antioxidant. Deficiencies in selenium can lead to infertility, arthritis, hypothyroidism (selenium is essential for making T3), loss of energy, immune system deficiency, and, in children, cardiac problems.

Apart from its many metabolic functions, selenium performs an important role in the functioning of the immune system. In a 1994 study performed at New York University, subjects who received a 200 mcg daily supplement of selenium for eight weeks showed an enhanced immune response to foreign antigens, including an increase natural killer cell activity. Research also indicates that selenium up-regulates IL-2 and increases activation of T helper cells. Selenium supplementation may also down regulate abnormally high levels of the inflammatory cytokines IL-8 and TNF alpha.

USES IN ME/CFS: In ME/CFS, selenium is used primarily as an antioxidant. Selenium helps form glutathione peroxidases (which eliminate peroxide oxidants in the cell), as well as acting as a peroxynitrite scavenger. Both of these properties make selenium an important adjunct in antioxidant therapy. Selenium's role in thyroid hormone production also make it an essential supplement for people suffering from borderline hypothyroidism. Selenium has been used as a mood enhancer as well.

Treatment rating for Selenium