In the ever-evolving landscape of health and wellness, the spotlight often falls on various vitamins and minerals, each hailed for its unique contributions to our well-being. Among these, selenium—a mineral with remarkable immune-boosting potential—takes center stage. The September 2020 issue of the esteemed journal Frontiers in Nutrition unveiled a comprehensive review of studies exploring selenium’s pivotal role in immune function. This mineral, often overlooked, emerges as a potent shield against viral infections, pathogens, and even cancer. Join us as we delve into the intricate world of selenium and its profound impact on our health.

Selenium’s Role in Immunity: A Deep Dive into Research

The research published in Frontiers in Nutrition meticulously analyzed the body of evidence surrounding selenium’s influence on immune function. It drew attention to the alarming consequences of selenium deficiency in animals and low selenium status in humans. These conditions not only heighten vulnerability to viruses and other pathogens but may also raise the spectre of cancer.

Selenium and Viral Resilience: A Silver Lining

One of the most compelling findings was the impact of selenium supplementation on patients living with the HIV virus. The study revealed that providing selenium supplements could slow the progression of the disease and bolster T-Helper Cell numbers—a critical component in maintaining the health and functionality of these patients.

Beyond HIV, other studies showcased selenium’s potential in mitigating the effects of various viral and serious infections. It’s a testament to selenium’s longstanding recognition as a nutrient that supports immune function. Selenium plays a pivotal role in optimizing antioxidant protection within cells, particularly immune cells. However, its influence extends beyond that, encompassing a multifaceted array of effects that aid immune function and prevent viruses from mutating and becoming more virulent.

A Defining Moment: Selenium’s Impact on COVID-19

In an era dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the connection between selenium and viral resilience takes on newfound significance. The research alludes to a study conducted in China, where patients with superior selenium status demonstrated significantly better recovery rates from COVID-19 than those with suboptimal selenium levels. This suggests that maintaining a higher-than-normal selenium status could offer protective benefits against the detrimental effects of the viral infection.

Germany also yielded compelling data, with serum selenium levels strongly correlated with COVID-19 outcomes in hospitalized patients. Astonishingly, a significant percentage of patients exhibited very low serum selenium status, and those with the lowest levels faced a considerably higher risk of mortality. In light of these findings, the authors of the review paper advocate for encouraging adults to incorporate selenium supplements into their daily regimen to enhance immunity and reduce the virulence of COVID-19-related viruses until a vaccine becomes widely available.

Selenium and Cancer: A Complex Relationship

Turning our attention to the realm of cancer, selenium emerges as a multifaceted ally in the fight against this formidable disease. While some clinical trials have indicated limited benefit in using selenium to prevent cancer, an abundance of evidence suggests that selenium and its compounds can serve as potent anti-cancer agents under specific circumstances.

Interestingly, selenium supplementation exhibits promise in amplifying the anti-cancer effects of several chemotherapy drugs commonly employed in cancer treatment. Numerous observational studies, known as epidemiological studies, have linked higher serum selenium levels and toenail selenium concentrations (a more reliable long-term indicator of selenium status) to a reduced risk of various types of cancer.

Balancing the Selenium Equation

In the grand tapestry of dietary intake, selenium is not an exotic mineral. In fact, most North Americans are believed to obtain the recommended daily amount of selenium from their diets, which is set at 55 micrograms (mcg) per day. However, the Frontiers in Nutrition journal article paints a different picture. It suggests that as individuals age, higher selenium intake may be necessary to optimize immune function and reduce viral infections. With age comes a greater need for immune support, and selenium may hold the key to bolstering defences.

Many individuals in modern society augment their selenium intake through high-potency multivitamin and mineral supplements, which typically provide an additional 50-200 mcg of selenium per day.

Conclusion: Selenium—A Guardian of Health

In a world where viral threats and cancer loom large, selenium emerges as a formidable ally in our pursuit of health and longevity. Its immune-boosting capabilities, coupled with its potential to mitigate the impact of viral infections, position it as a mineral of extraordinary significance. As the global community grapples with the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19, the wisdom of incorporating selenium supplementation into our daily routine offers a ray of hope.

Selenium, once relegated to the background, now rightfully takes its place on the stage of health and wellness. From HIV to COVID-19 and the battle against cancer, this unassuming mineral is rewriting the narrative of our immune defences. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, the power of choice is evident: embrace the potential of selenium and unlock a future where immunity reigns supreme.

References:

1. Hiffler L et al. Selenium and RNA virus interactions: Potential implications for SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19). Frontiers of Nutrition, September 2020. [Read more](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnut.2020.00164/full)
2. Tan HW et al. Selenium species: Current status and potentials in cancer prevention and therapy. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2019; 20(1):75. [Read more](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6337524/)
3. National Institutes of Health: Office of Dietary Supplements. Selenium. [Learn more](https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Selenium-HealthProfes%20sional/)