Selenium supplementation may increase the risk of diabetes

Unlike type 1 diabetes that is inherited and develops at an early age, type 2 diabetes occurs when the body loses its sensitivity to insulin, which regulates blood sugar levels. The cause is that the cells in the body degrade leading to an imbalance called oxidative stress that causes stem cells to function freely.

(Photo: Riedborn-apotheke.de) Researchers have investigated whether antioxidants can inhibit the activity of free radicals. They analyzed the effects of selenium, one of the most powerful antioxidants.

The study led by Dr. Saverio Stranges followed 1,202 patients without diabetes. Half of them supplemented with 200 mg of selenium over the course of 8 years, with the rest taking placebo.

As a result, of the 600 patients taking selenium, 58 had developed type 2 diabetes compared with 39 of the 602 patients taking placebo.

The researchers confirmed that people who took selenium had a 50% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. According to experts, selenium should not be added because it contains enough of these foods. Selenium is found in pigs, cows, garlic, fish and shellfish.

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