The link between selenium and type 2 diabetes

Selenium is a mineral found in soil and in foods such as wheat germ, shellfish, liver, sunflower seeds, and mushrooms. Selenium aids in metabolism. Selenium supplements have been recommended for a broad range of things from cold sores to arthritis. It was previously thought that selenium may be helpful in the prevention of type 2 diabetes. Recent research, however, uncovers that the exact opposite is true. Long-term use of selenium supplements can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.

50% of the 1,202 participants in a long-term study took selenium supplements. Over a period of 7.7 years, the people who took the supplements had a 50% greater chance of developing type 2 diabetes.

Some multivitamins or supplements contain up to 200 milligrams of selenium. While the recommended dose depends upon your age, for most adults the recommendation is around 55 milligrams. A healthy diet can provide all the selenium most people need.