Abstract
Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient for mammals, and its deficiency seriously threatens human health. A series of biofortification strategies have been developed to produce Se-enriched foods for combating Se deficiency. Although there have been some inconsistent results, extensive evidence has suggested that Se supplementation is beneficial for preventing and treating several chronic diseases. Understanding the association between Se and chronic diseases is essential for guiding clinical practice, developing effective public health policies, and ultimately counteracting health issues associated with Se deficiency. The current review will discuss the food sources of Se, biofortification strategies, metabolism and biological activities, clinical disorders and dietary reference intakes, as well as the relationship between Se and health outcomes, especially cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic inflammation, cancer, and fertility. Additionally, some concepts were proposed, there is a non-linear U-shaped dose-responsive relationship between Se status and health effects: subjects with a low baseline Se status can benefit from Se supplementation, while Se supplementation in populations with an adequate or high status may potentially increase the risk of some diseases. In addition, at supra-nutritional levels, methylated Se compounds exerted more promising cancer chemo-preventive efficacy in preclinical trials.
Highlights
Selenium (Se) is essential for the maintained health of mammals, and its deficiency is common and a serious issue worldwide
In individuals with low (132.50 μg/L), it was found that there was a positive correlation between serum Se and Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) [59]. These results indicated that Se deficiency and Se excess are potential risk factors in the development of T2DM
The synthesis of results from several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) revealed that Se supplementation at a low Se status appears to have no adverse effects, while Se supplementation in well-nourished populations may potentially increase the risk of T2DM [62]
Summary
Selenium (Se) is essential for the maintained health of mammals, and its deficiency is common and a serious issue worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) shows that there are more than 40 countries and regions globally that suffer from Se deficiency [1]. Se deficiency is a serious hazard to human health and prone to various chronic diseases, such as Keshan disease, Kashin-Beck disease, cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes, cancer, inflammatory diseases, subfertility, and viral infections. The biofortification strategies to produce Se-enriched foods can help overcome Se deficiency and improve human health. Several factors affecting the beneficial activities of Se compounds have been identified, including the baseline Se status, the dosage and forms of Se. A better understanding of the relationship between Se and chronic diseases will help develop more precise solutions to combat the health problems caused by Se deficiency
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