Selenium benefits for men
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Selenium Benefits for Men
Selenium and Male Fertility
Improving Semen Quality
Selenium supplementation has shown significant benefits in improving semen quality in infertile men. Studies have demonstrated that selenium, either alone or in combination with N-acetyl-cysteine, can enhance various semen parameters, including sperm concentration, motility, and morphology. These improvements are correlated with increased levels of selenium in seminal plasma, suggesting a direct beneficial effect on semen quality 168.
Sperm Motility and Conception Rates
Research indicates that selenium supplementation can significantly increase sperm motility, which is a critical factor for successful conception. In a controlled trial, men receiving selenium showed improved sperm motility compared to those on a placebo. Additionally, a subset of men in the selenium-treated group achieved paternity, highlighting the potential of selenium to enhance fertility outcomes .
Selenium and Prostate Health
Prostate Cancer Prevention
Selenium has been investigated for its potential role in reducing the incidence of prostate cancer. A long-term study found that selenium supplementation was associated with a significant reduction in prostate cancer incidence among men with a history of skin cancer. This suggests that selenium may have protective effects against prostate cancer, although further research is needed to confirm these findings .
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Levels
In a New Zealand cohort study, selenium supplementation was found to influence PSA levels, particularly in specific subgroups such as younger men, never-smokers, and those with certain genetic markers. These findings indicate that selenium may have a nuanced impact on prostate health, potentially offering benefits in reducing PSA levels and associated risks .
Selenium and Immune Function
Enhancing Immune Responses
Selenium is essential for the proper functioning of the immune system. A study on healthy men showed that selenium supplementation could modulate immune responses, particularly in preventing the induction of anergy in delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) skin responses. This suggests that selenium plays a role in maintaining immune tolerance and enhancing cell-mediated immunity .
Selenium and Thyroid Function
Modulating Thyroid Hormones
Selenium intake has been shown to affect thyroid hormone levels and energy metabolism. In a controlled study, men consuming high-selenium diets experienced changes in thyroid hormone levels, including a decrease in serum triiodothyronine (T3) and a compensatory increase in thyrotropin. These hormonal changes were associated with weight gain, indicating that selenium can influence thyroid function and metabolic outcomes .
Conclusion
Selenium supplementation offers several health benefits for men, particularly in the areas of fertility, prostate health, immune function, and thyroid regulation. While selenium can improve semen quality and sperm motility, it also shows promise in reducing prostate cancer risk and modulating immune and thyroid functions. However, the effects of selenium can vary based on individual factors such as age, genetic makeup, and baseline selenium levels. Further research is needed to fully understand the optimal use of selenium supplements for various health outcomes in men.
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