Ten clinical manifestations of selenium deficiency

Selenium deficiency can have a variety of effects on our bodies. Selenium is a trace element. Although its content in our body is very small, its role cannot be underestimated. Selenium deficiency may lead to a variety of clinical manifestations, which are sometimes not obvious, but long-term deficiency may affect health. The following are ten common clinical manifestations of selenium deficiency.

Fatigue and weakness are common symptoms of selenium deficiency. Selenium plays an important role in energy metabolism, and a deficiency can lead to low energy levels and fatigue. Just like your phone slows down when it’s running low on battery, your body can also feel sluggish when it’s lacking selenium.

Decreased immunity is also a symptom of selenium deficiency. Selenium helps strengthen the immune system, and when it is deficient, the body's ability to fight infection is reduced, making it more susceptible to colds or other infections.

Cardiovascular health may also be affected. Selenium is an important component of antioxidants, and when it is deficient, the antioxidant capacity of the cardiovascular system is weakened, which may increase the risk of heart disease.

Thyroid dysfunction is also something to watch out for. Selenium plays an important role in the metabolism of thyroid hormones, and a deficiency may lead to hypothyroidism, weight gain, depression, and other problems.

Selenium deficiency may also lead to skin and hair problems. Selenium helps maintain healthy skin and hair, and a deficiency may cause dry skin, thinning hair and other problems.

Selenium deficiency may affect reproductive health, especially male fertility. Selenium plays an important role in sperm formation, and deficiency may lead to decreased fertility.

Joint and bone health may also be affected. Selenium helps maintain healthy bones and joints, and a deficiency may lead to osteoporosis or joint pain.

Mood swings and depression are also symptoms of selenium deficiency. Selenium plays a protective role in the nervous system, and a deficiency may lead to mood swings or depression.

Selenium deficiency may also affect cognitive function. Studies have shown that selenium is essential for brain development and function, and deficiency may lead to memory loss or difficulty concentrating.

Selenium deficiency may cause muscle weakness or pain. Selenium plays an important role in muscle function, and a deficiency may cause muscle weakness or pain.

In order to avoid these problems caused by selenium deficiency, it is recommended to eat a balanced diet and consume a moderate amount of selenium-rich foods such as nuts, seafood, meat and eggs. If necessary, you can also supplement with selenium preparations under the guidance of a doctor. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and ensuring that the body consumes enough nutrients is something that each of us should pay attention to. I hope this information is helpful to you.