What Are The Effects Of Selenium Deficiency?

Selenium is a trace element that is required in only small amounts by the body so it is difficult to be deficient. However, in areas of the world such as China, where selenium levels are particularly low in the soil, specific diseases have been associated with selenium deficiency:

The first is Keshan Disease, which results in an enlarged heart and poor heart function, and occurs in selenium deficient children. Keshan disease was first described in the early 1930s in China, and is still seen in large areas of the Chinese countryside. Researchers believe that selenium deficient people infected with a specific virus are most likely to develop Keshan disease.

The second is Kashin-Beck Disease, which results in osteoarthritis and the third is Myxedematous Endemic Cretinism, which results in mental retardation.

All three conditions can be prevented by using selenium supplements either in fortified foods or in tablet form to ensure the minimum daily amount is consumed.