Selenium Deficiency
What is Selenium Deficiency?
Selenium deficiency is a condition resulting from having too little of the essential trace mineral selenium in the diet. It is an important mineral required for a healthy immune system, cognitive function, and reproductive health. Selenium deficiency can result in serious health complications such as muscle wasting, cardiomyopathy, weakness, and mental fatigue.
Symptoms of Selenium Deficiency
When selenium deficiency occurs, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Impaired cognitive function
- Muscle wasting
- Cardiomyopathy
- Low energy level
- Anemia
- Depression
- Hair loss
- Mental fatigue
- Irritability and nervousness
- Goiter (enlarged thyroid gland)
Causes of Selenium Deficiency
Selenium deficiency can be caused by a number of factors, including:
- Consuming foods that are naturally low in selenium
- Having a vegetarian or vegan diet
- Undergoing medical treatments that reduce absorption of selenium
- Living in a geographical area that is low in selenium
- Having a gastrointestinal disorder that limits absorption of selenium
- Having an overactive thyroid
Risk Factors of Selenium Deficiency
There are certain groups of people who are at a higher risk of developing a selenium deficiency. These groups include:
- Infants and toddlers
- Elderly people
- Pregnant women
- People with gastrointestinal disorders, such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease
- Vegetarians and vegans
Diagnosing Selenium Deficiency
Selenium deficiency can be diagnosed by having a blood test. The test measures the amount of selenium in the bloodstream. The results of the test can help a doctor determine whether a person has a selenium deficiency.
Treatment of Selenium Deficiency
The primary treatment for selenium deficiency is increasing one’s dietary intake of selenium-rich foods. Brazil nuts, tuna, halibut, beef, and sunflower seeds are all good sources of selenium. Eating more selenium-rich foods can help to replenish selenium stores in the body and prevent further deficiency.
In cases of severe deficiency, doctors may prescribe a selenium supplement. However, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider before taking any supplements, as consuming too much selenium can lead to health complications.