Using Selenium for Gout Relief and Prevention

Selenium is a mineral and essential nutrient for humans that can be obtained through diet. It is commonly used for medical applications that include therapy for diseases of the heart and blood vessels and preventing various cancers that include prostate, stomach, lung and skin cancer. In the arthritis world, selenium is a commonly used by people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Selenium for Gout Relief and Prevention

A common attribute among gout patients is the tendency to have selenium deficiency. Selenium is a highly beneficial mineral that has powerful antioxidant properties that protect cells from damage. Cell health is critical as it ensures all processes in your body are functioning at optimal levels. In patients with gout, there is often cell damage in the kidneys that could be addressed or taken care of if not for the lack of selenium.

Selenium Sources

Food sources for Selenium include crab, liver, fish, poultry and wheat. Selenium content will vary among these sources based on where they are grown or raised and the amount of minerals available to the sources externally. Brazilian nuts are considered one of the most abundant sources of selenium, with one nut providing about 200 mcg. Other good sources include wheat germ, garlic, grains, sunflower seeds, walnuts, raisins and both fresh and saltwater fish.

Selenium Supplement Variations

Selenium is available in an encapsulated form.

How to Use Selenium for Gout Relief and Prevention

Selenium can be taken as a supplement and at the recommended daily dosages that your bottle manufacturer provides. The daily recommended dietary allowance for selenium is 55 mcg a day. Selenium can also be added to your diet by consumption of food sources.

Precautions

Selenium is considered safe in doses less than 400 mcg daily, short term. Taking selenium for long-term may result in selenium toxicity and increase the risk of developing diabetes. Children and women who are pregnant and breastfeeding should consult with a doctor before considering a selenium supplement. Individuals with autoimmune diseases may experience worsen effects of their disease due to selenium’s influence on the immune system. Selenium may decrease the ability of sperm to move which can reduce fertility in men.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a connection between selenium deficiency and gout??

Patients who have gout, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are commonly known to have selenium deficiency.

Can selenium stop recurring gout attacks?

The evidence around selenium’s role in preventing gout attacks is inconsistent, however it is good practice to maintain healthy selenium levels for proper cell function.

Can it cause gout attacks?

Taking an excess of selenium can result in poor and deteriorated health that can contribute to a gout attack.