Selenium Status in Elderly People: Longevity and Age-Related Diseases

Selenium (Se) is a trace element active in selenoproteins, which can regulate oxidative stress. It is generally perceived as an import factor for maintaining health in the elderly.The goal of this review is to discuss selenium concentration in biological samples, primarily serum or plasma, as a function of age and its relation with longevity. The elemental level in various age-related diseases is reviewed.Highest selenium values were observed in healthy adults, while in an elderly population significantly lower concentrations were reported. Variables responsible for contradictory findings are mentioned. Risk and benefits of Se-supplementation still remain under debate.