Summary
This narrative review provides a synthesis of evidence on selenium's transition from recognised toxin to essential micronutrient, contextualising its critical role in human health through selenoprotein biosynthesis. The paper examines selenium's biological mechanisms and interactions with complementary micronutrients, particularly vitamin E, and explores the evidence linking adequate selenium status to reduced risk of chronic diseases. The review positions selenium within the broader micronutrient landscape to inform understanding of optimal micronutrient intakes for disease prevention.
Regional applicability
The findings are relevant to UK nutritional science and public health guidance; however, application depends on whether the review addresses UK-specific selenium intake patterns, dietary sources, and soil selenium status. The review's conclusions on optimal selenium intake levels could inform UK dietary reference values and food-based recommendations.
Key measures
Selenium intake levels, selenoprotein expression and function, associations with chronic disease incidence and mortality
Outcomes reported
The review synthesises evidence on selenium's biological functions, its interactions with other micronutrients such as vitamin E, and associations between selenium intake and chronic disease prevention. It examines selenoprotein synthesis as a key mechanism linking selenium status to health outcomes.
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