Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 17 Researches
7.6
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 63 Reviews
7.6
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Tablet
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Selenium (elemental) (from 20 mg L-Selenomethionine)
100 mcg
182%
Top Medical Research Studies
8
We explored the effects of selenium supplementation in patients suffering from Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT), a leading cause of hypothyroidism. By analyzing multiple randomized controlled trials, we aimed to see how selenium might impact thyroid function, particularly focusing on thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and thyroid antibodies.
Our analysis included results from 35 studies, where we observed that selenium supplementation led to a notable decrease in TSH levels among patients not undergoing thyroid hormone replacement therapy. This suggests that selenium may help manage thyroid function in specific populations.
Additionally, we found that selenium also reduced levels of thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) and malondialdehyde (MDA), which indicates improved thyroid health and reduced oxidative stress. Interestingly, we observed that these benefits occurred irrespective of whether patients were receiving thyroid hormone therapy.
However, we did not find significant changes in other thyroid hormones or immune markers, indicating that while selenium can be effective in some areas, its benefits may not extend across all measures of thyroid health. Overall, our findings support the safe use of selenium in lowering TSH and certain antibodies in HT patients not on hormone therapy.
Our analysis included results from 35 studies, where we observed that selenium supplementation led to a notable decrease in TSH levels among patients not undergoing thyroid hormone replacement therapy. This suggests that selenium may help manage thyroid function in specific populations.
Additionally, we found that selenium also reduced levels of thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) and malondialdehyde (MDA), which indicates improved thyroid health and reduced oxidative stress. Interestingly, we observed that these benefits occurred irrespective of whether patients were receiving thyroid hormone therapy.
However, we did not find significant changes in other thyroid hormones or immune markers, indicating that while selenium can be effective in some areas, its benefits may not extend across all measures of thyroid health. Overall, our findings support the safe use of selenium in lowering TSH and certain antibodies in HT patients not on hormone therapy.
Read More
9
We conducted a double-blinded, randomized controlled trial to investigate how selenium affects individuals with autoimmune hypothyroidism. In our study, we divided 144 patients into two groups, one receiving a combination of levothyroxine (a common thyroid treatment) and selenium, while the other group was given a placebo along with the same thyroid medication. This design allowed us to effectively measure the results and make a fair comparison between the two groups.
After three months of treatment, we observed some interesting changes. The group that took selenium showed a significant reduction in anti-Tg antibodies—markers associated with thyroid autoimmunity—compared to the placebo group. We also found that their TSH levels decreased significantly, while their free T4 levels increased. This suggests that selenium not only helps lower immune system activity against the thyroid but also supports overall thyroid function.
Our findings suggest that incorporating selenium into the treatment plan for autoimmune hypothyroidism could be beneficial for patients. While this doesn't isolate selenium’s effects completely, as it was taken alongside levothyroxine, the results indicate its potential in managing thyroid health effectively.
After three months of treatment, we observed some interesting changes. The group that took selenium showed a significant reduction in anti-Tg antibodies—markers associated with thyroid autoimmunity—compared to the placebo group. We also found that their TSH levels decreased significantly, while their free T4 levels increased. This suggests that selenium not only helps lower immune system activity against the thyroid but also supports overall thyroid function.
Our findings suggest that incorporating selenium into the treatment plan for autoimmune hypothyroidism could be beneficial for patients. While this doesn't isolate selenium’s effects completely, as it was taken alongside levothyroxine, the results indicate its potential in managing thyroid health effectively.
Read More
8
We delved into the impact of nano-selenium on hypothyroidism, particularly how it might alleviate related oxidative stress in the liver and kidneys. In the study, rats were divided into different groups, including a control group and those treated with propylthiouracil (PTU) to induce hypothyroidism. Some of the hypothyroid rats also received varying doses of nano-selenium to assess its effects.
Over a six-week period, we measured indicators of liver and kidney function, such as specific enzyme levels and markers for oxidative damage. Results showed that hypothyroidism significantly increased levels of harmful substances while decreasing beneficial ones. However, when nano-selenium was administered, we observed a noticeable improvement in these key indicators.
Overall, the presence of nano-selenium appeared to protect against the damaging effects of hypothyroidism, helping to restore balance in oxidative stress levels. This suggests that selenium may hold promise as a supportive treatment for liver and kidney health in individuals with thyroid disorders. Future research will help us understand the specific mechanisms behind these positive effects.
Over a six-week period, we measured indicators of liver and kidney function, such as specific enzyme levels and markers for oxidative damage. Results showed that hypothyroidism significantly increased levels of harmful substances while decreasing beneficial ones. However, when nano-selenium was administered, we observed a noticeable improvement in these key indicators.
Overall, the presence of nano-selenium appeared to protect against the damaging effects of hypothyroidism, helping to restore balance in oxidative stress levels. This suggests that selenium may hold promise as a supportive treatment for liver and kidney health in individuals with thyroid disorders. Future research will help us understand the specific mechanisms behind these positive effects.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
7.5
Reduced hair loss
1069 people found this helpful
I have been taking selenium for two years as prescribed by my endocrinologist for hypothyroidism, with 1 tablet at breakfast. I chose this brand for being yeast-free, affordable, and containing selenomethionine, which is better absorbed. I’ve noticed less hair loss and more energy; even with hormones, I previously faced chronic fatigue. It's especially effective in tandem with Vitamin D. Selenium is a powerful antioxidant critical for glutathione’s functioning and assists in removing heavy metals and chemicals from the body.
Read More
7.5
Increased endurance
250 people found this helpful
Selenium was prescribed to me for hypothyroidism and to strengthen my body. I initially took it without multivitamins and noticed remarkable endurance; I experienced significantly less fatigue after jogging and physical activity. My dizziness, which I experienced when standing up quickly, returned if I missed a dose, underlining selenium's importance. Adding multivitamins eliminated skin dryness that arose initially. I’ve been taking selenium for over two months now without any side effects.
Read More
7.5
Levelled cycle
129 people found this helpful
I have been taking selenium for around two months due to hypothyroidism. I have noticed significant improvements; my cycle has normalised, and my periods are now pain-free, with less PMS. I trust this supplement for maintaining my thyroid health, especially since iodine should not be taken alone when selenium is deficient, as it can lead to complications. I highly recommend this product for anyone in a similar situation.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 17 Researches
7.6
- All Researches
9
We conducted a double-blinded, randomized controlled trial to investigate how selenium affects individuals with autoimmune hypothyroidism. In our study, we divided 144 patients into two groups, one receiving a combination of levothyroxine (a common thyroid treatment) and selenium, while the other group was given a placebo along with the same thyroid medication. This design allowed us to effectively measure the results and make a fair comparison between the two groups.
After three months of treatment, we observed some interesting changes. The group that took selenium showed a significant reduction in anti-Tg antibodies—markers associated with thyroid autoimmunity—compared to the placebo group. We also found that their TSH levels decreased significantly, while their free T4 levels increased. This suggests that selenium not only helps lower immune system activity against the thyroid but also supports overall thyroid function.
Our findings suggest that incorporating selenium into the treatment plan for autoimmune hypothyroidism could be beneficial for patients. While this doesn't isolate selenium’s effects completely, as it was taken alongside levothyroxine, the results indicate its potential in managing thyroid health effectively.
After three months of treatment, we observed some interesting changes. The group that took selenium showed a significant reduction in anti-Tg antibodies—markers associated with thyroid autoimmunity—compared to the placebo group. We also found that their TSH levels decreased significantly, while their free T4 levels increased. This suggests that selenium not only helps lower immune system activity against the thyroid but also supports overall thyroid function.
Our findings suggest that incorporating selenium into the treatment plan for autoimmune hypothyroidism could be beneficial for patients. While this doesn't isolate selenium’s effects completely, as it was taken alongside levothyroxine, the results indicate its potential in managing thyroid health effectively.
Read More
9
Selenium aids subclinical hypothyroidism
We approached the intriguing question of whether selenium, when combined with myo-inositol, could help those dealing with subclinical hypothyroidism. This study involved 148 women of reproductive age, who had their thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels monitored over a six-month period while taking daily supplements.
Throughout the study, we observed substantial improvements in TSH levels, as well as reductions in autoantibody titers, which are markers of thyroid autoimmune activity. Participants also reported better management of symptoms typically associated with hypothyroidism, including more regular menstrual cycles and lower cholesterol levels. Remarkably, these benefits appeared alongside the treatment quite consistently.
Overall, the findings suggest that incorporating selenium and myo-inositol into the treatment plan for subclinical hypothyroidism could be quite beneficial. This combination may not only help stabilize thyroid function but could also improve the quality of life for women affected by this condition. The study holds promise for those seeking alternative options to manage their thyroid health effectively.
Throughout the study, we observed substantial improvements in TSH levels, as well as reductions in autoantibody titers, which are markers of thyroid autoimmune activity. Participants also reported better management of symptoms typically associated with hypothyroidism, including more regular menstrual cycles and lower cholesterol levels. Remarkably, these benefits appeared alongside the treatment quite consistently.
Overall, the findings suggest that incorporating selenium and myo-inositol into the treatment plan for subclinical hypothyroidism could be quite beneficial. This combination may not only help stabilize thyroid function but could also improve the quality of life for women affected by this condition. The study holds promise for those seeking alternative options to manage their thyroid health effectively.
Read More
8
Selenium and myo-inositol efficacy
We explored the impact of selenium supplementation on patients with autoimmune thyroiditis, particularly focusing on its effectiveness in restoring normal thyroid function. The study compared the effects of selenium alone against a combination therapy of selenium and myo-inositol (referred to as MI + Se).
Through a systematic review of three studies involving 288 participants, we observed that the combined treatment of selenium and myo-inositol resulted in a notable decrease in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. This suggests that combining these two supplements may enhance the restoring of thyroid function better than selenium alone.
However, while we noted significant reductions in TSH and thyroglobulin antibodies, other measures like TPO antibodies, T3, and T4 levels showed minimal or no significant changes. This indicates that while the MI + Se treatment could help in some areas, more extensive research is necessary to fully understand its effectiveness and to perhaps confirm these findings with larger, long-term studies.
Through a systematic review of three studies involving 288 participants, we observed that the combined treatment of selenium and myo-inositol resulted in a notable decrease in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. This suggests that combining these two supplements may enhance the restoring of thyroid function better than selenium alone.
However, while we noted significant reductions in TSH and thyroglobulin antibodies, other measures like TPO antibodies, T3, and T4 levels showed minimal or no significant changes. This indicates that while the MI + Se treatment could help in some areas, more extensive research is necessary to fully understand its effectiveness and to perhaps confirm these findings with larger, long-term studies.
Read More
8
We investigated how selenium affects thyroid function in older Chinese adults, focusing particularly on its potential impact on hypothyroidism. Our study included participants aged 65 and older, who provided samples of their fingernails and whole blood for analysis. We specifically looked at hormone levels, including thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and various forms of thyroxine, to assess thyroid health.
Our findings revealed a strong positive association between selenium levels in the blood and fingernails, suggesting that higher selenium status is linked with lower TSH levels. We observed that participants in higher selenium quartiles had lower TSH, which is typically associated with less risk of hypothyroidism. For instance, those with the highest selenium levels showed a reduced odds ratio for hypothyroidism.
However, our results also highlighted a complex relationship; while higher selenium levels seemed to lower the risk of hypothyroidism, they were simultaneously linked with an increased risk of hyperthyroidism. This dual effect suggests that selenium status also plays a role in thyroid dysfunctions, with both positive and negative implications for thyroid health.
In summary, higher selenium levels are associated with lower TSH levels and may reduce the risk of hypothyroidism, but they also pose a higher risk for hyperthyroidism in this older population. This study emphasizes the intricate balance of nutrients like selenium in managing thyroid health, particularly among aging adults.
Our findings revealed a strong positive association between selenium levels in the blood and fingernails, suggesting that higher selenium status is linked with lower TSH levels. We observed that participants in higher selenium quartiles had lower TSH, which is typically associated with less risk of hypothyroidism. For instance, those with the highest selenium levels showed a reduced odds ratio for hypothyroidism.
However, our results also highlighted a complex relationship; while higher selenium levels seemed to lower the risk of hypothyroidism, they were simultaneously linked with an increased risk of hyperthyroidism. This dual effect suggests that selenium status also plays a role in thyroid dysfunctions, with both positive and negative implications for thyroid health.
In summary, higher selenium levels are associated with lower TSH levels and may reduce the risk of hypothyroidism, but they also pose a higher risk for hyperthyroidism in this older population. This study emphasizes the intricate balance of nutrients like selenium in managing thyroid health, particularly among aging adults.
Read More
8
We observed the effects of selenium and zinc deficiencies on thyroid health in a particular case involving a 50-year-old man. This individual had undergone intestinal surgery, leaving him with a significant reduction in his small intestine. As a result, he was reliant on total parenteral nutrition (TPN) without trace element supplements for about six weeks.
During this period, lab tests indicated that his thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were elevated, along with high free thyroxine (FT4) and low free triiodothyronine (FT3) levels—an unusual pattern that raised suspicion of selenium deficiency. After starting selenium supplementation, we were pleased to note an improvement: his FT3 levels increased, and FT4 levels returned to normal ranges, although TSH still showed some temporary elevation.
We considered that zinc deficiency could also play a role in this thyroid dysfunction. After introducing zinc into his treatment plan, we noticed a normalization of his overall thyroid function. This highlights the importance of evaluating both selenium and zinc levels when addressing thyroid health, particularly in patients on TPN.
Overall, while selenium supplementation showed significant improvement in the case, the role of zinc was also critical in fully resolving the thyroid dysfunction.
During this period, lab tests indicated that his thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were elevated, along with high free thyroxine (FT4) and low free triiodothyronine (FT3) levels—an unusual pattern that raised suspicion of selenium deficiency. After starting selenium supplementation, we were pleased to note an improvement: his FT3 levels increased, and FT4 levels returned to normal ranges, although TSH still showed some temporary elevation.
We considered that zinc deficiency could also play a role in this thyroid dysfunction. After introducing zinc into his treatment plan, we noticed a normalization of his overall thyroid function. This highlights the importance of evaluating both selenium and zinc levels when addressing thyroid health, particularly in patients on TPN.
Overall, while selenium supplementation showed significant improvement in the case, the role of zinc was also critical in fully resolving the thyroid dysfunction.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 63 Reviews
7.6
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
7.5
Reduced hair loss
1069 people found this helpful
I have been taking selenium for two years as prescribed by my endocrinologist for hypothyroidism, with 1 tablet at breakfast. I chose this brand for being yeast-free, affordable, and containing selenomethionine, which is better absorbed. I’ve noticed less hair loss and more energy; even with hormones, I previously faced chronic fatigue. It's especially effective in tandem with Vitamin D. Selenium is a powerful antioxidant critical for glutathione’s functioning and assists in removing heavy metals and chemicals from the body.
Read More
7.5
Increased endurance
250 people found this helpful
Selenium was prescribed to me for hypothyroidism and to strengthen my body. I initially took it without multivitamins and noticed remarkable endurance; I experienced significantly less fatigue after jogging and physical activity. My dizziness, which I experienced when standing up quickly, returned if I missed a dose, underlining selenium's importance. Adding multivitamins eliminated skin dryness that arose initially. I’ve been taking selenium for over two months now without any side effects.
Read More
7.5
Levelled cycle
129 people found this helpful
I have been taking selenium for around two months due to hypothyroidism. I have noticed significant improvements; my cycle has normalised, and my periods are now pain-free, with less PMS. I trust this supplement for maintaining my thyroid health, especially since iodine should not be taken alone when selenium is deficient, as it can lead to complications. I highly recommend this product for anyone in a similar situation.
Read More
9
Positive thyroid effects
82 people found this helpful
This selenium is pure and yeast-free, with an excellent dosage. It's vital for hypothyroidism as it positively impacts thyroid function and benefits various body systems.
Read More
9
Effective supplement
64 people found this helpful
This selenium supplement has been a great help with my hypothyroidism. I started with 200 mg daily but now take 100 mg consistently. It’s not only economical but also a quality product for thyroid function, crucial for the production of hormones. I highly recommend it for anyone facing thyroid issues and appreciate its antioxidant benefits, hence my five-star rating.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
7.5
Levelled cycle
129 people found this helpful
I have been taking selenium for around two months due to hypothyroidism. I have noticed significant improvements; my cycle has normalised, and my periods are now pain-free, with less PMS. I trust this supplement for maintaining my thyroid health, especially since iodine should not be taken alone when selenium is deficient, as it can lead to complications. I highly recommend this product for anyone in a similar situation.
9
Dermatitis relief
34 people found this helpful
I struggled with dermatitis due to a lack of thyroid hormones caused by hypothyroidism. After two months of taking this supplement, both my TSH levels normalised and the dermatitis vanished. I’m delighted with the results!
7.5
Reduced hair loss
1069 people found this helpful
I have been taking selenium for two years as prescribed by my endocrinologist for hypothyroidism, with 1 tablet at breakfast. I chose this brand for being yeast-free, affordable, and containing selenomethionine, which is better absorbed. I’ve noticed less hair loss and more energy; even with hormones, I previously faced chronic fatigue. It's especially effective in tandem with Vitamin D. Selenium is a powerful antioxidant critical for glutathione’s functioning and assists in removing heavy metals and chemicals from the body.
9
Restored daily routine
8 people found this helpful
Selenium has been fantastic for my hypothyroidism. I struggled to get up each morning, feeling heavy and sluggish. Since taking selenium, getting out of bed has become effortless, and my body feels delightful and warm. I continue taking both Coenzyme Q10 and selenium daily, restoring my ability to resume a normal life.
7.5
Cycle regulation
8 people found this helpful
I took selenium to support my thyroid health. Due to hypothyroidism, I often experienced weakness and fatigue. After taking selenium for about 2 months, I have noticed that my cycle has normalised, and my fatigue has decreased. While spring may contribute to my improved mood, I have also found my cycle to be less painful and without PMS. The tablets are easily swallowable and have a mild aftertaste. I plan to continue and will update if my symptoms change.
7.5
Boosted mood
51 people found this helpful
Selenium acts as a powerful antioxidant and is an essential trace element for absorption. Given my hypothyroidism, I take 1 tablet daily after breakfast along with iodine. Both nutrients are interdependent. Increased hydration is vital. My health and mood have improved, and I experience less eye strain now. The capsules are manageable and do not cause side effects.
7.5
Increased endurance
250 people found this helpful
Selenium was prescribed to me for hypothyroidism and to strengthen my body. I initially took it without multivitamins and noticed remarkable endurance; I experienced significantly less fatigue after jogging and physical activity. My dizziness, which I experienced when standing up quickly, returned if I missed a dose, underlining selenium's importance. Adding multivitamins eliminated skin dryness that arose initially. I’ve been taking selenium for over two months now without any side effects.
9
Effective supplement
3 people found this helpful
This product effectively supports thyroid function. I have ordered from this company numerous times and rely on selenium alongside zinc and vitamin C to aid in converting T4 to T3. I take 50 mg per serving and find the supplement beneficial for managing hypothyroidism; it has alleviated symptoms of weakness, especially in hot weather. I take one capsule daily, enjoying the pleasant taste, and plan to continue this regimen.
9
Effective supplement
64 people found this helpful
This selenium supplement has been a great help with my hypothyroidism. I started with 200 mg daily but now take 100 mg consistently. It’s not only economical but also a quality product for thyroid function, crucial for the production of hormones. I highly recommend it for anyone facing thyroid issues and appreciate its antioxidant benefits, hence my five-star rating.
8
Selenium and myo-inositol efficacy
We explored the impact of selenium supplementation on patients with autoimmune thyroiditis, particularly focusing on its effectiveness in restoring normal thyroid function. The study compared the effects of selenium alone against a combination therapy of selenium and myo-inositol (referred to as MI + Se).
Through a systematic review of three studies involving 288 participants, we observed that the combined treatment of selenium and myo-inositol resulted in a notable decrease in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. This suggests that combining these two supplements may enhance the restoring of thyroid function better than selenium alone.
However, while we noted significant reductions in TSH and thyroglobulin antibodies, other measures like TPO antibodies, T3, and T4 levels showed minimal or no significant changes. This indicates that while the MI + Se treatment could help in some areas, more extensive research is necessary to fully understand its effectiveness and to perhaps confirm these findings with larger, long-term studies.
Through a systematic review of three studies involving 288 participants, we observed that the combined treatment of selenium and myo-inositol resulted in a notable decrease in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. This suggests that combining these two supplements may enhance the restoring of thyroid function better than selenium alone.
However, while we noted significant reductions in TSH and thyroglobulin antibodies, other measures like TPO antibodies, T3, and T4 levels showed minimal or no significant changes. This indicates that while the MI + Se treatment could help in some areas, more extensive research is necessary to fully understand its effectiveness and to perhaps confirm these findings with larger, long-term studies.
8
We explored the effects of selenium supplementation in patients suffering from Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT), a leading cause of hypothyroidism. By analyzing multiple randomized controlled trials, we aimed to see how selenium might impact thyroid function, particularly focusing on thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and thyroid antibodies.
Our analysis included results from 35 studies, where we observed that selenium supplementation led to a notable decrease in TSH levels among patients not undergoing thyroid hormone replacement therapy. This suggests that selenium may help manage thyroid function in specific populations.
Additionally, we found that selenium also reduced levels of thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) and malondialdehyde (MDA), which indicates improved thyroid health and reduced oxidative stress. Interestingly, we observed that these benefits occurred irrespective of whether patients were receiving thyroid hormone therapy.
However, we did not find significant changes in other thyroid hormones or immune markers, indicating that while selenium can be effective in some areas, its benefits may not extend across all measures of thyroid health. Overall, our findings support the safe use of selenium in lowering TSH and certain antibodies in HT patients not on hormone therapy.
Our analysis included results from 35 studies, where we observed that selenium supplementation led to a notable decrease in TSH levels among patients not undergoing thyroid hormone replacement therapy. This suggests that selenium may help manage thyroid function in specific populations.
Additionally, we found that selenium also reduced levels of thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) and malondialdehyde (MDA), which indicates improved thyroid health and reduced oxidative stress. Interestingly, we observed that these benefits occurred irrespective of whether patients were receiving thyroid hormone therapy.
However, we did not find significant changes in other thyroid hormones or immune markers, indicating that while selenium can be effective in some areas, its benefits may not extend across all measures of thyroid health. Overall, our findings support the safe use of selenium in lowering TSH and certain antibodies in HT patients not on hormone therapy.
3
We conducted a study to determine if selenium supplementation could enhance the quality of life (QoL) for patients suffering from autoimmune thyroiditis. In a robust clinical trial involving 412 participants who were already receiving levothyroxine treatment, we set up a double-blind, randomized control design. This means that neither the participants nor the researchers knew who was receiving selenium and who was on a placebo, ensuring that our observations were as unbiased as possible.
Over 12 months, participants were given either 200 μg of selenium or a placebo daily. We assessed their quality of life multiple times using a questionnaire designed specifically for thyroid-related issues. While participants showed improvements in their QoL during the trial, we found no significant differences between the two groups after one year.
Interestingly, while selenium supplementation did lead to lower thyroid peroxidase antibody levels, it did not impact levothyroxine dosage or the balance of thyroid hormones in the body. Ultimately, both selenium and placebo groups experienced comparable improvements, indicating that selenium supplementation did not provide additional benefits beyond the placebo effect.
Over 12 months, participants were given either 200 μg of selenium or a placebo daily. We assessed their quality of life multiple times using a questionnaire designed specifically for thyroid-related issues. While participants showed improvements in their QoL during the trial, we found no significant differences between the two groups after one year.
Interestingly, while selenium supplementation did lead to lower thyroid peroxidase antibody levels, it did not impact levothyroxine dosage or the balance of thyroid hormones in the body. Ultimately, both selenium and placebo groups experienced comparable improvements, indicating that selenium supplementation did not provide additional benefits beyond the placebo effect.
8
We investigated how selenium affects thyroid function in older Chinese adults, focusing particularly on its potential impact on hypothyroidism. Our study included participants aged 65 and older, who provided samples of their fingernails and whole blood for analysis. We specifically looked at hormone levels, including thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and various forms of thyroxine, to assess thyroid health.
Our findings revealed a strong positive association between selenium levels in the blood and fingernails, suggesting that higher selenium status is linked with lower TSH levels. We observed that participants in higher selenium quartiles had lower TSH, which is typically associated with less risk of hypothyroidism. For instance, those with the highest selenium levels showed a reduced odds ratio for hypothyroidism.
However, our results also highlighted a complex relationship; while higher selenium levels seemed to lower the risk of hypothyroidism, they were simultaneously linked with an increased risk of hyperthyroidism. This dual effect suggests that selenium status also plays a role in thyroid dysfunctions, with both positive and negative implications for thyroid health.
In summary, higher selenium levels are associated with lower TSH levels and may reduce the risk of hypothyroidism, but they also pose a higher risk for hyperthyroidism in this older population. This study emphasizes the intricate balance of nutrients like selenium in managing thyroid health, particularly among aging adults.
Our findings revealed a strong positive association between selenium levels in the blood and fingernails, suggesting that higher selenium status is linked with lower TSH levels. We observed that participants in higher selenium quartiles had lower TSH, which is typically associated with less risk of hypothyroidism. For instance, those with the highest selenium levels showed a reduced odds ratio for hypothyroidism.
However, our results also highlighted a complex relationship; while higher selenium levels seemed to lower the risk of hypothyroidism, they were simultaneously linked with an increased risk of hyperthyroidism. This dual effect suggests that selenium status also plays a role in thyroid dysfunctions, with both positive and negative implications for thyroid health.
In summary, higher selenium levels are associated with lower TSH levels and may reduce the risk of hypothyroidism, but they also pose a higher risk for hyperthyroidism in this older population. This study emphasizes the intricate balance of nutrients like selenium in managing thyroid health, particularly among aging adults.
References
- Nikkhah M, Vafa M, Abiri B, Golgiri F, Sarbakhsh P, et al. The Effect of Some Micronutrients Multi-Supplementation on Thyroid Function, Metabolic Features and Quality of Life in Patients Treating With Levothyroxine and Vitamin D: A Double-blind, Randomized Controlled Trial. Med J Islam Repub Iran. 2024;38:133. doi:10.47176/mjiri.38.133
- Zuhair V, Sheikh AT, Shafi N, Babar A, Khan A, et al. Role of Supplementation with Selenium and Myo-Inositol Versus Selenium Alone in Patients of Autoimmune Thyroiditis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Clin Med Insights Endocrinol Diabetes. 2024;17:11795514241300998. doi:10.1177/11795514241300998
- Li F, Su L, Shao R, Luo J, Chen Y, et al. Selenium Status Associates with Thyroid Hormone and Thyroid Dysfunction in Older Chinese Adults. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2025;203:1413. doi:10.1007/s12011-024-04286-2
- AkbariRad M, Mazloum Khorasani Z, Beizae B, Ayatollahi H, Emadzadeh M, et al. Effect of selenium on anti-Tg antibody in patients with autoimmune hypothyroidism: A randomized controlled trial. Caspian J Intern Med. 2024;15:340. doi:10.22088/cjim.15.2.340
- Nagano K, Motomura Y, Bando H, Yamamoto M, Kanie K, et al. Thyroid dysfunction due to trace element deficiency-not only selenium but also zinc. Hormones (Athens). 2024;23:675. doi:10.1007/s42000-024-00550-1
- Wang S, Chen P, He Y, Wei J, Tian L, et al. A follow-up study on factors affecting the recovery of patients with hypothyroidism in different selenium environments. BMC Endocr Disord. 2024;24:14. doi:10.1186/s12902-024-01536-1
- El-Shaer RAA, Ibrahim S, Hewady PM, Atef MM, El-Deeb OS, et al. Selenium protects against nesfatin-1 modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis during hypothyroidism in male rats. Physiol Rep. 2024;12:e15923. doi:10.14814/phy2.15923
- Huwiler VV, Maissen-Abgottspon S, Stanga Z, Mühlebach S, Trepp R, et al. Selenium Supplementation in Patients with Hashimoto Thyroiditis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Thyroid. 2024;34:295. doi:10.1089/thy.2023.0556
- Larsen C, Winther KH, Cramon PK, Rasmussen ÅK, Feldt-Rasmusssen U, et al. Selenium supplementation and placebo are equally effective in improving quality of life in patients with hypothyroidism. Eur Thyroid J. 2024;13. doi:10.1530/ETJ-23-0175
- Kubiak K, Szmidt MK, Kaluza J, Zylka A, Sicinska E. Do Dietary Supplements Affect Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Antioxidant Status in Adults with Hypothyroidism or Hashimoto's Disease?-A Systematic Review of Controlled Trials. Antioxidants (Basel). 2023;12. doi:10.3390/antiox12101798
- Hosseini M, Behehsti F, Marefati N, Anaeigoudari A. Nano-selenium relieved hepatic and renal oxidative damage in hypothyroid rats. Physiol Rep. 2023;11:e15682. doi:10.14814/phy2.15682
- Wróblewski M, Wróblewska J, Nuszkiewicz J, Pawłowska M, Wesołowski R, et al. The Role of Selected Trace Elements in Oxidoreductive Homeostasis in Patients with Thyroid Diseases. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24. doi:10.3390/ijms24054840
- Lu L, Huang Z, Wang X, Chen J. Interaction Between Dietary Selenium and Zinc Intakes on Hypothyroidism. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2023;201:4667. doi:10.1007/s12011-023-03563-w
- Payer J, Jackuliak P, Kužma M, Džupon M, Vaňuga P. Supplementation with myo-inositol and Selenium improves the clinical conditions and biochemical features of women with or at risk for subclinical hypothyroidism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2022;13:1067029. doi:10.3389/fendo.2022.1067029
- Hojjati Fard F, Sabzi F, Marefati N, Vafaee F, Beheshti F, et al. Nanoselenium improved learning, memory, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor and attenuated nitric oxide, and oxidative stress in the brain of juvenile hypothyroid rats. Metab Brain Dis. 2022;37:2719. doi:10.1007/s11011-022-01073-7
- Paparo SR, Ferrari SM, Patrizio A, Elia G, Ragusa F, et al. Myoinositol in Autoimmune Thyroiditis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2022;13:930756. doi:10.3389/fendo.2022.930756
- Berisha-Muharremi V, Tahirbegolli B, Phypers R, Hanna R. Efficacy of Combined Photobiomodulation Therapy with Supplements versus Supplements alone in Restoring Thyroid Gland Homeostasis in Hashimoto Thyroiditis: A Clinical Feasibility Parallel Trial with 6-Months Follow-Up. J Pers Med. 2023;13. doi:10.3390/jpm13081274
