Background Dietary supplements are currently attracting a lot of public attention. Many people readily consume, for example, selenium-containing dietary supplements without having second thoughts. Therefore, this study investigated whether the intake of selenium-containing dietary supplements is associated with proven benefits for the health of the human organism. This is weighed against the risks of poisoning through an overdose of the preparations. Methods 70 selenium supplements from Germany and the U.S. were analyzed by composition, dosage, price, and labeling based on manufacturer information. The results were then evaluated graphically. Additionally, a literature review covered legal aspects, selenium biochemistry, food selenium content, and data on intoxications from poison control centers. Results Selenium-containing dietary supplements from Germany and the USA differ notably in dosage, with median values of 200 µg for U.S. products and 150 µg for German products. The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, however, advises against exceeding 45 µg per day. German supplements are, on average, EUR 0.07 more expensive based on daily treatment costs. Further disparities exist in active ingredient forms and labeling, with many products lacking clear origin and exceeding legal limits in health claims. Data from German poison centers and international studies reveal repeated cases of intoxication, highlighting serious consumer risks due to insufficient regulation. Conclusions Stricter regulatory measures would be in the interest of consumer protection. No recommendation can be made in favor of initiating selenium supplementation without a medically diagnosed selenium deficiency. The economic profit comes at the expense of insecure consumers who want to promote their health without being able to judge all facets of supplementation with selenium.
Donner et al. (Mon,) studied this question.