Selenium concentration in milks

Abstract

In this review article, papers on selenium concentrations in cow and human milk are reviewed in order to identify the main factors that affect these concentrations as well as the Se intake of lactating infants. Selenium intake and Se status of the mother seem to be the main factors that influence Se concentrations in human milk. The progression of lactation can diminish the Se concentrations in human milk. Most authors have reported Se levels in human milk greater than Se levels in available milk formulas for infants from the same country. Thus, higher Se intakes in the breast-fed infant than Se intakes in formula-fed infants have been observed. Also, the Se compounds in breast milk seem to be more biologically available for infant nutrition than those in formulas.