Abstract
Selenium is one of the elements classified within the group of micronutrients which are necessary in trace amounts for the proper functioning of organisms. Selenium participates in the protection of cells against excess H2O2, in heavy metal detoxification, and regulation of the immune and reproductive systems as well. It also ensures the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. Selenium induces the occurrence of the selenoprotein synthesis process involved in the antioxidant defense mechanism of the organism. Recent years have brought much success in the studies on selenium. Anticarcinogenic properties of selenium against some cancers have been reported. Supplementation is increasingly becoming a solution to this problem. A large number of different supplementation methods are promoting studies in this area. Slight differences in the selenium content can result in excess or deficiency, therefore supplementation has to be done carefully and cautiously.
Highlights
The discovery of selenium by the Swedish chemist J.J
Selenium in food products most often occurs in combination with proteins, products with high protein content are typically characterized by a higher selenium content
The results of the studies presented by Kenfield et al [110] have showed that selenium supplementation at a dose of 140 μg/day or more may increase the risk of death after diagnosis of metastatic prostate cancer
Summary
The discovery of selenium by the Swedish chemist J.J. Berzelius in 1817 initiated studies evaluating the influence of the inorganic forms of this element on living organisms. In 1957, Schwartz and Folz demonstrated the protective effect of selenium on organisms. Thanks to these studies, selenium was included in a group of trace elements whose deficiencies in the diet may cause numerous diseases. Selenium deficiency in the diet may have an adverse effect on health. Dietary selenium deficiency affects 0.5–1 billion people in the world, and currently, in many countries there is an inadequate intake of this element [3]. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the maximum daily intake of selenium should not exceed 70 μg/day [1]. In view of the very diverse range of selenium intakes, extensive educational programs providing information on the positive impact of this element on health should be carried out. Molecules 2016, 21, 609 the fruit of the species Lecythis ollaria which accumulate huge amounts of selenium caused hair loss, diarrhea, and emesis in humans [10]
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