SELENIUM

What is selenium?

Selenium is an essential trace element, meaning our bodies only need a small amount [^[1]]. We can get selenium from the foods we eat or from supplements [^[2]].

Selenium intake is essential to ensure the proper function of selenoproteins, which get their name, in part, from selenium [^[3]]. Selenium is a crucial aspect of selenoproteins, which help make DNA and are involved in the antiviral response. More generally, selenoproteins protect against cell damage [^1]]. Selenium supplements support the innate immune system and help regulate the secretion of pro-inflammatory molecules [^[2]].

What does selenium do in the body?

Selenium is involved in the brain, hormones, heart, blood vessels, and immune functions. Our bodies also need selenium for antioxidant processes. Selenium deficiency increases susceptibility to COVID-19. Dietary selenium is necessary for proper immune function and may protect against certain diseases, such as cancers, asthma, and heart disease [^[4]]. Selenium is thought to prevent cancer cells from growing and spreading due to its ability to shut down the cancer cell cycle, promote cell death of tumor cells, and initiate DNA repair [^[5]].

How can selenium help alleviate certain Long COVID symptoms and pathophysiology? 

Low selenium levels in COVID-19 are linked to increased tissue damage and Long COVID symptoms [^[2]]. Low selenium levels may increase susceptibility to COVID-19, influence disease severity, and contribute to post-acute COVID symptoms, such as Long COVID. Many studies show that selenium concentration in COVID-19 patients is lower than in people who do not have COVID-19. Selenium concentration in COVID-19 is also linked to the severity and mortality of the disease [^[2]].