Selenium is an essential mineral which helps boost our immune system and helps fight cancer. A recent study revealed that increased levels of selenium may contribute to about 10% increase in cholesterol levels and also increasing the risk for heart diseases.
The Journal of Nutrition suggested that consumers must take caution in taking selenium complements until we understand more about the real benefits and consequences of having too much of the mineral in our body.
The findings of the research link increased risks for type 2 diabetes and higher levels of cholesterol when you have too much selenium in your blood. Selenium can naturally be found in meat, fish, nuts, and grains. People living in environments rich in selenium therefore can benefit from the food they eat and would not need supplements.
Lack of selenium may put you at risk for heart problems, thyroid gland underactivity, and weaker immune system. Remember that more selenium than what your body needs may also be more harmful than good.
The research also mentions of the dietary supplements being pushed in different countries worldwide and how people are buying them without really knowing if they are beneficial to their health.
The proponents of the study were able to link selenium with increased cholesterol levels after analyzing the health records and diets of more than 1,000 individuals from the U.K. The subjects gave blood and provided information about their health practices.