Evidence supporting the use of: Selenium
For the health condition: Infection (viral)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Selenium is an essential trace mineral that plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of the immune system. Scientific evidence supports the notion that adequate selenium status may help the body defend against certain viral infections. Selenium is a constituent of selenoproteins, which have antioxidant properties and help regulate immune responses. Deficiency in selenium has been linked to increased susceptibility to viral infections and more severe disease outcomes. For example, studies have demonstrated that selenium-deficient mice infected with Coxsackievirus or influenza virus exhibit more severe disease and higher viral mutation rates compared to selenium-sufficient controls. In humans, low selenium status has been associated with worse outcomes in viral infections such as HIV, hepatitis B and C, and influenza. Furthermore, some studies suggest that selenium supplementation in deficient individuals may improve immune function and potentially reduce the severity or duration of viral infections. However, evidence from large, high-quality randomized controlled trials is limited, and selenium supplementation does not appear to benefit individuals who already have adequate selenium levels. Thus, while there is scientific validation for selenium's role in supporting immune function and potentially mitigating some viral infections, the evidence is moderate and largely based on observational and small interventional studies. Routine supplementation should be considered primarily for those at risk of deficiency.

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