szelénhiány

Selenium deficiency, known as szelénhiány in Hungarian, is a condition that arises when an individual's dietary intake of selenium is insufficient. Selenium is a trace mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including antioxidant defense, thyroid hormone metabolism, and immune system support. Its deficiency can lead to a range of health issues, although severe deficiency is rare in many parts of the world due to selenium's presence in soil and thus in food crops.

The symptoms of selenium deficiency can vary depending on the severity and duration of the deficiency, as well as individual factors. In milder cases, symptoms might be subtle and include fatigue, weakness, and a weakened immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections. More severe deficiency can lead to specific conditions such as Keshan disease, a cardiomyopathy primarily affecting children in selenium-deficient regions, and Kashin-Beck disease, an osteoarthritis that causes joint deformities. Cognitive impairment has also been associated with low selenium levels.

Diagnosis of selenium deficiency typically involves blood tests to measure selenium levels. Dietary assessment is also important to understand the source of potential inadequacy. Treatment involves increasing selenium intake through diet or supplements. Foods rich in selenium include Brazil nuts, seafood, organ meats, and certain grains. The recommended daily allowance for selenium varies by age and life stage, and it is important to consume it within recommended limits, as excessive selenium intake can also be harmful.