Outcome
    Moderate Evidence

    Selenium for T-Cell Function Enhancement

    Selenium supports T-cell proliferation within a narrow adequate range.

    Overview

    Selenium supports T-cell proliferation within a narrow adequate range.

    Verdict

    Insufficient evidence

    How It Works

    Selenoproteins protect lymphocytes from oxidative damage during clonal expansion.

    Dosing & Protocol

    Typical dose

    Recommended dose
    55-200mcg/day, only if intake is low
    Expected timeframe
    8-12 weeks

    Protocol

    form
    Selenomethionine, selenium-enriched yeast or sodium selenite
    duration
    8-12 weeks in the immune studies
    co factor
    Evidence is insufficient. Selenoproteins are involved in T-cell receptor signalling, proliferation and differentiation, and animal work shows selenium deficiency impairs T-cell responses while repletion restores them. A small number of human studies report increased T-cell proliferation and cytotoxic activity after selenium supplementation, mostly in older or marginally deficient adults, using research immunology techniques. These are small, mechanistic studies with inconsistent findings, no clinical endpoints, and no demonstration that enhanced in vitro T-cell responses reduce infection or improve outcomes. Excess selenium is itself immunosuppressive.
    titration
    Do not exceed 200 mcg/day from supplements without supervision; 400 mcg/day is the tolerable upper limit
    starting dose
    Not established as a T-cell intervention. Trials used 100-200 mcg/day of selenium

    Evidence

    What the studies say

    Deficiency impairs T-cell responses and viral clearance in animal and human observational work. Supplementation above sufficiency shows no immune benefit and raises diabetes risk signals.

    Selenium supplementation and cellular immune response: a randomized placebo-controlled trial

    Score: 6/10
    2004
    rct
    n=22

    Broome CS, McArdle F, Kyle JA +5 more

    Selenium supplementation increased T-cell proliferation and accelerated poliovirus clearance compared with placebo

    View source

    Safety

    Caveats

    Toxic above about 400mcg/day. Brazil nut intake can be enough on its own.

    Less likely to help if

    Anyone selenium-replete, in whom extra impairs rather than enhances immune function.

    Medical Disclaimer

    The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any supplement regimen.

    Individual results may vary. The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products and information are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.