From the Research
For individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, a daily selenium intake of 200 micrograms twice a day is recommended, as it has been shown to significantly reduce clinical symptoms and joint pain in patients with RA, as demonstrated in the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Key Points to Consider
- Selenium has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the joints, potentially complementing conventional RA treatments.
- The recommended dose of 200 micrograms twice a day is based on the study by 1, which found significant improvements in clinical symptoms and joint pain in patients with RA after 12 weeks of supplementation.
- Selenium supplements are available as selenomethionine or sodium selenite, with selenomethionine being better absorbed.
- Food sources of selenium include Brazil nuts, seafood, organ meats, and whole grains, but supplementation offers more precise dosing.
- It is essential to be cautious not to exceed 400 mcg daily, as selenium toxicity can cause hair loss, nail brittleness, gastrointestinal upset, and neurological symptoms.
Monitoring and Adjustments
- Start with the recommended dose and monitor for improvements in joint pain and inflammation over 8-12 weeks before considering dose adjustments.
- Always discuss selenium supplementation with your healthcare provider before starting, especially if taking other medications for rheumatoid arthritis.
Supporting Evidence
- The study by 1 provides the most recent and highest quality evidence for the effectiveness of selenium supplementation in reducing clinical symptoms and joint pain in patients with RA.
- Other studies, such as those by 2, 3, 4, and 5, provide additional evidence for the potential benefits of selenium supplementation in RA, but are not as recent or of the same quality as the study by 1.