Evidence supporting the use of: Selenium
For the health condition: Influenza

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Selenium is an essential trace element that plays a role in immune function, and there is some scientific interest in its potential to support the body's defense against viral infections, including Influenza. Selenium is a component of selenoproteins, which are important for antioxidant defense and immune cell regulation. Deficiency in selenium has been associated with increased susceptibility to viral infections and may worsen the severity of influenza and other respiratory illnesses in animal studies. In particular, selenium-deficient mice infected with influenza virus have shown more severe symptoms and higher viral mutation rates.

However, evidence in humans is limited. Some clinical studies and reviews have explored the impact of selenium supplementation on immune response and outcomes in viral infections, but direct studies on selenium supplementation specifically for the prevention or treatment of Influenza in humans are sparse and show mixed results. A few trials have suggested that adequate selenium status may help enhance immune responses, but there is no strong consensus or high-quality evidence to support selenium supplementation as a standard treatment or preventive measure for Influenza in otherwise healthy individuals.

In summary, while scientific rationale exists based on selenium’s role in immune function and animal studies, the current human evidence supporting selenium's use for Influenza is weak to moderate at best. Supplementation may only be relevant in cases of deficiency, and routine use for Influenza is not widely recommended by clinical guidelines.

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