Too much selenium can increase risk of heart disease

Elevated levels of the mineral selenium in the diet significantly increases the level of cholesterol, thereby increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease, say British scientists from the University of Warwick.

Selenium - an essential element with antioxidant properties found in vegetables, meat and seafood. However, when a person begins to consume too much selenium, or with foods or taking vitamin supplements, the body is an imbalance, which has adverse health consequences. British doctors found that excessive levels of selenium in the diet are associated with increased concentrations of cholesterol, which can cause heart disease.

The study involved more than 1000 people aged 19 to 64 years. Experts studied the plasma concentrations of selenium in the blood of the subjects, and also analyzed the lifestyles of participants and their food ration. Researchers found that people with the highest rates of selenium in blood cholesterol levels grew by 8%, and high density lipoprotein that predispose to heart attack - at 10%.

Doctors note that recently people have begun to take more selenium in the form of vitamins because of its alleged anti-cancer properties. But doctors warn that, in an effort to protect themselves from cancer, with excessive consumption of selenium may suffer from heart disease.