

Additionally, Sec may be absorbed using the same mechanism as cysteine. Organic forms of Se such as selenomethionine (SeMet) and selenocysteine (Sec) are absorbed in the small intestine through the same active sodium-dependent transport system as the amino acid methionine. ĭietary Se is absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) in its inorganic and organic forms.

Recommendations for Se intake are: in adults 55–70 µg/day, in infants 15 µg/day, in children 20–30 µg/day, in pregnant women 65 µg/day, and in lactating mothers 75 µg/day, the tolerable upper intake level is limited to 300 µg/day. For this, a balanced intake of Se is crucial to maximizing the health benefits of selenium. Se excessive and deficient dietary intake is associated with damaging health effects that have been characterized by a U-shaped relationship. Its role in the human body has been studied, especially for thyroid function, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hypertension, obesity, inflammation, reproductive system, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. However, the margin between Se toxicity and its deficiency is very narrow. Adequate Se intake is essential for immune, endocrine, cardiovascular, reproductive, and nervous systems functions. Selenium (Se) (Se 34 79) is an essential trace element mainly known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties as it is part of the catalytic center of different selenoproteins.
