Now it’s Selenium’s Turn

Scientists at the Université Montpellier, France, have investigated the role of selenium in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Their findings, published in the journal Epidemiology, show that the plasma levels of selenium decrease with age,, and this may be responsible for cognitive decline (reduced mental functioning) in the elderly. Over 1350 people aged 60 to 70 were recruited in 1993, and followed for 9 years. Those with a decrease in plasma selenium levels over this period were more likely to develop cognitive decline. In the few subjects who had an increase in plasma selenium levels, those with the smallest increase had greater cognitive decline compared with the others. There was no association between short-term change (less than 2 years) and any cognitive changes.

This study was done in France, where dietary selenium levels are probably different from those in the USA. Selenium is an effective antioxidant, and a possible role in cognitive function may exist. But selenium deficiency in the USA is extremely rare. It’s been shown that, in France, selenium supplements may help prevent goiter.

Selenium overdose (usually from industrial accident) is also rare; an intake of up to 400 micrograms daily is safe. At present, there’s no reason for you to rush out and buy a selenium supplement.