Selenium level test – standards, preparation, deficiency symptoms

Selenium is a trace element that plays a key role in maintaining human health. Its levels in the body may be too low or too high, which can lead to various health problems. In this article we will discuss the role of selenium in the body, the principles of quantitative testing of its level, the symptoms of excess and deficiency, the causes of these conditions and how to prepare for a selenium test.

What role does selenium play in the human body?

Selenium is essential for many biological processes in the body. It acts as an important component of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase, which help fight free radicals and protect cells from damage. In addition, selenium affects the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, the immune system and reproductive processes. It is also important for maintaining healthy nails and hair.

What is quantitative selenium testing?

Quantitative selenium testing involves measuring its concentration in blood or urine. This is an important diagnostic procedure that allows you to assess whether the level of selenium in the body is normal or whether there are excesses or deficiencies of this element. A selenium test may be recommended by your doctor to rule out or confirm suspected selenium deficiency or excess.

Symptoms of selenium excess and deficiency

Excess selenium can lead to toxicity, which manifests itself, among others, in: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue and hair loss in large amounts. In turn, selenium deficiency may contribute to health problems, such as a weakened immune system, thyroid problems, or even disorders in fetal development.

Causes of selenium excess and deficiency

Excess selenium may result from excessive consumption of dietary supplements containing this element or from long-term exposure to environmental pollutants. In turn, selenium deficiency may occur as a result of insufficient selenium intake in the diet or problems with the absorption of this nutrient by the body.

Selenium test – how to prepare?

Preparing for a selenium test is relatively simple. It is advisable to avoid dietary supplements containing selenium a few days before the examination and to reduce the consumption of products rich in selenium, such as Brazil nuts or sea fish. On the day of the test, you should fast and refrain from eating or drinking for at least 8 hours before taking a blood or urine sample.

Quantitative selenium testing – price/reimbursement and referral

The price of a selenium quantitative test may vary by laboratory and region. In some cases, this test may be reimbursed by the healthcare system if ordered by a doctor. It is worth consulting your doctor to obtain a referral for a selenium test, which may help you obtain a refund.

Your suggestions

If you suspect a selenium deficiency or have symptoms that suggest an excess, consult your doctor immediately. He will decide whether a selenium test is necessary and will order appropriate diagnostic measures.

Recommended articles

To learn more about selenium, its role in the body and a healthy diet rich in this element, we recommend reading the following articles:

– “Selenium in the diet – why is it important?” – “Symptoms of selenium deficiency and how to avoid it” – “Selenium and thyroid health – what is worth knowing”

It is worth ensuring the right amount of selenium in your diet to ensure your health and well-being.

To sum up, testing selenium levels is an important step in the diagnosis of human health. It allows you to assess whether the level of this element is normal or whether there are deficiencies or excesses that may affect health. With proper preparation and consultation with a doctor, you can use this diagnostics to take care of your health.