Selenium deficiency is higher in individuals with celiac disease
Many diverse health complications can stem from the autoimmune
disorder celiac disease (CD). Research conducted in the past few years
indicates that selenium deficiency is one of them. Selenium is a trace mineral
found in many foods. According to the the National
Institutes of Health,
“selenium, which is nutritionally essential for humans, is a constituent of
more than two dozen selenoproteins that play critical roles in reproduction,
thyroid hormone metabolism, DNA synthesis, and protection from oxidative damage
and infection.”
Clearly, this essential nutrient is critical, as a deficiency can result in
serious health consequences.
An
article published on glutenfreeworks.com titled
“Understanding and Treating Selenium Deficiency in Celiac Disease,” states that
although deficiency of selium in the general population is rare, it is more
frequent in individuals with CD. Malabsorption of selenium and other nutrients
results from the intestinal damage of the small intestine caused by the body’s
inability to digest gluten.
According to the article, whole
blood, plasma, and white blood cells of individuals with a biopsy-confirmed CD
on a gluten-free diet still had “significantly lower concentrations of
selenium” than the control group. Another study mentioned in the article
investigated “the selenium in children with celiac disease having type 3
duodenal lesions.” The study found that selenium levels are also lower in
children with celiac disease.
Mild to moderate depletion of selenium causes exhaustion and
low energy. Other symptoms include:
·
Weakness, pain or tenderness in muscles
·
Hypertension
·
Cardiomyopathy
·
Thyroid disorders
·
Lowered resistance to infections
·
Elevated liver enzymes
·
Predisposition to cancer
The recommended dietary allowance of Selenium is 70 μg
(micrograms) for adult males and 55 μg for adult females. For most, getting the
right amount of selenium is effortless. It appears from these studies however,
that individuals with CD may need to be more mindful and aware. Dietary
supplements can correct a deficiency. Selenium toxicity, however, can occur
easily if too much is consumed. To learn more about selenium go to this webpage hosted by the University of Maryland
Medical Center.
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