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Selenium

Selenomethionine, Selenocysteine, Sodium Selenite

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Meta Information

ID:selenium
Name:Selenium
Schema Version:1.5

Alternate Names

  • Selenomethionine
  • Selenocysteine
  • Sodium Selenite

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:
2
High Cost:
7
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Widely available over-the-counter supplement; not covered by insurance.

Summary

Selenium is an essential trace mineral that is a core component of selenoproteins, which function as powerful antioxidant enzymes (e.g., glutathione peroxidases). These enzymes protect cells from oxidative damage, a key driver of aging. It also plays a vital role in thyroid hormone metabolism and immune function, making its sufficiency critical for systemic health.

Purpose

Essential mineral for antioxidant enzymes and thyroid function.

Card Summary

An essential trace mineral that is a critical component of antioxidant enzymes (selenoproteins) and supports thyroid function, helping to mitigate oxidative stress.

Drug Class

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:
4.2
Justification:
Corrects deficiency, supporting crucial antioxidant enzymes, but high doses may increase risk.

Evidence

Grade:
B
Score:
5.5
Justification:
Mixed results from large human trials; benefit is clearest in deficient populations.

Safety

Score:
4
Justification:
Narrow therapeutic window; toxicity (selenosis) and increased disease risk are possible with overdose.

Flags

  • U-shaped mortality curve: both deficiency and excess are associated with increased mortality.
  • The SELECT trial linked 200 mcg/day supplementation to an increased risk of high-grade prostate cancer in some men.
  • High intake may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
  • Toxicity (selenosis) can occur with chronic intake above the 400 mcg/day tolerable upper limit.
  • Dietary sources like Brazil nuts can have highly variable and potentially excessive selenium content.

Verdict

Ensure adequacy through diet; supplement cautiously only if deficient.

Created

2026-04-26T17:36:35.860999Z

Model

Gemini 3.1 Pro (High)

Delivery

Route:
oral
Scope:
  • systemic

Indication

Focus:
healthspan
Description:
Selenium is an essential trace mineral that is a core component of selenoproteins, which function as powerful antioxidant enzymes (e.g., glutathione peroxidases). These enzymes protect cells from oxid...

Typical Protocol

  • Supplementing with 50-200 mcg daily, often as selenomethionine, to ensure adequate levels without exceeding the upper limit.