Selenium, an essential element necessary for proper cellular function, has recently become a popular supplement thought to have antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. A new British study has linked high levels of selenium to increased levels of total cholesterol and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. The U.K. has lower selenium status that the U.S. making it a good place for a study like this. High selenium status has also recently been linked to a higher incidence of diabetes. Anti-diabetic effects of selenium supplementation in animal models were only seen at nearly toxic doses, and are not recommended for humans.
PositiveTip: Remember, when it comes to nutrition, it is possible to have too much of a good thing! Selenium supplementation is not advised.