How to use selenium
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How to Use Selenium: Insights from Recent Research
Selenium Supplementation in Cattle
Selenium (Se) is a crucial trace element for cattle, playing a significant role in antioxidant defense and overall health. The nutritional requirements for Se in cattle are 100 µg/kg DM for beef cattle and 300 µg/kg DM for dairy cows. High fermentable carbohydrates, nitrates, sulfates, calcium, or hydrogen cyanide in the diet can negatively impact Se utilization. Supplementing Se can reduce the incidence of metritis and ovarian cysts postpartum and improve fertility by reducing embryonic death during early gestation. Organic Se, such as Se yeasts, is more effective than mineral Se in transferring Se to calves and increasing the Se content and polyunsaturated fatty acids in milk.
Selenium and Cardiovascular Disease Prevention
Selenium is a key component of selenoproteins that protect against oxidative stress and may prevent chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, studies show inconsistent associations between Se intake and CVD risk. Randomized controlled trials indicate no significant effects of Se supplementation on all-cause mortality, CVD mortality, or non-fatal CVD events. There is a slight, non-significant increase in type 2 diabetes risk with high Se exposure. Overall, current evidence does not support Se supplements for primary CVD prevention.
Selenium's Role in Human Health
Selenium is essential for the proper functioning of many enzymes, such as glutathione peroxidase and thioredoxin reductase. It acts as a potent antioxidant and is crucial for protecting against oxidative stress and chronic degenerative diseases. Organic forms of Se, like selenomethionine and selenocysteine, are more easily absorbed than inorganic forms. Supplementing Se is vital, especially in Se-deficient regions, to prevent deficiencies and associated health risks.
Nano-Sized Selenium in Poultry
In poultry, nano-sized Se has shown promise in maintaining performance and improving health status without compromising tissue ultrastructure. Studies indicate that nano-Se enhances breast meat quality, liver health, and antioxidant potential. It also reduces mitochondrial damage in hepatocytes and improves oxidative indices, making it a highly bioavailable and low-toxicity option for poultry feed.
Selenium-Rich Foods and Transformation
Selenium is involved in synthesizing various selenoproteins with multiple physiological functions. Organic Se is safer and more effective than inorganic Se for nutritional supplementation. Selenium-rich foods are recommended for people in Se-deficient areas to prevent deficiencies and associated health issues. The enrichment of Se in plants and animals and the preparation of Se-rich foods are crucial for developing Se-fortified products.
Selenium in Daily Foodstuffs
Selenium content varies across different foodstuffs, with meat, eggs, poultry, and seafood generally having high Se levels. Low Se levels are linked to higher mortality risk, immune dysfunction, and mental failure. While Se supplementation can have antiviral effects and support reproductive health, its benefits in preventing chronic diseases like cancer and cardiovascular conditions remain unclear. Overuse of Se supplements can lead to toxicity, so balanced intake through diet is recommended.
Selenium and Thyroid Health
The thyroid gland contains the highest concentration of Se per gram of tissue in the body. Se is essential for thyroid hormone metabolism and antioxidant functions. Supplementing Se, particularly in its organic form, can benefit patients with autoimmune thyroiditis by reducing antibody levels and improving thyroid function and quality of life. It also helps in managing Graves' orbitopathy by improving eye health and delaying disease progression.
Selenium's Protective Effects Against Dementia
Selenium has shown protective effects against dementia-induced oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation in the brain and blood. In experimental studies, Se supplementation reduced oxidative damage and improved antioxidant enzyme activity, suggesting its potential in mitigating dementia-related injuries.
Selenium and Immune Toxicity
Selenium can alleviate immune toxicity caused by aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) by enhancing antioxidant capacity and increasing the expression of protective proteins like glutathione peroxidase 1 and selenoprotein S. This suggests that organic Se could be a promising supplement to protect against immune decline due to toxic exposures.
Conclusion
Selenium is a vital micronutrient with diverse roles in animal and human health. Its supplementation can improve reproductive health in cattle, enhance poultry performance, and protect against oxidative stress and immune toxicity. However, its benefits in preventing chronic diseases like cardiovascular conditions and cancer are still under investigation. Balanced Se intake through diet and careful supplementation is essential to harness its health benefits while avoiding toxicity.
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