Summary
This statement from the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) provides a systematic appraisal of evidence on selenium and human health, with particular focus on the UK population, which is known to have relatively low selenium intakes compared to North America. The report examines dietary sources, reference nutrient intakes, and the health consequences of both deficiency and excess selenium exposure. It informs UK dietary guidance by evaluating whether existing RNIs remain appropriate in light of contemporary evidence.
UK applicability
The report is directly applicable to UK policy and practice, addressing the well-documented decline in dietary selenium intakes in the UK since the 1970s, largely attributable to reduced use of selenium-rich North American wheat. Its recommendations are explicitly framed for UK dietary reference values and public health guidance.
Key measures
Reference Nutrient Intakes (RNI); serum and plasma selenium concentrations (µg/L); dietary selenium intake (µg/day); tolerable upper intake levels; biomarkers of selenium status
Outcomes reported
The report reviewed evidence on selenium status in the UK population, health effects of selenium deficiency and excess, and the adequacy of existing dietary reference values. It assessed the relationship between selenium intake and outcomes including thyroid function, immune response, cancer risk, and cardiovascular health.
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