Mining the potential of the mineral selenium

Whether you get enough of the essential trace mineral selenium may depend, in part, on where you live. Research suggests that people who live in areas with low soil selenium levels (which affect the amount that gets into plants) have higher rates of some types of cancers.

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Uses: Selenium contains antioxidants that could help protect the body from free-radical damage. It may also promote better functioning of the immune system and thyroid gland.

Dose: The recommended daily allowance for selenium is 55 micrograms, but some health experts think most people don’t get that much. Doses of 100 micrograms daily are recommended for disease prevention.

Precautions: Doses higher than 400 micrograms per day should be avoided to prevent a toxicity condition called selenosis. Signs of selenosis include depression and nervousness.

Research: Recently, scientists discovered a component of selenium that activates the tumor-suppressing gene, p53. This research might explain why adequate selenium levels might help prevent certain types of cancers. The federal government is testing selenium for its potential to prevent prostate cancer.

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Dietary supplement makers are not required by the U.S. government to show their products are safe or effective. Ask your health-care provider for advice on selecting a brand.