Role of selenium in pathophysiology of alcohol depenence – indications for supplementation

A significant increase of interest in the role of selenium in various biological processes may be noticed when reviewing recent literature related to many areas of science. Owing to various functions it fulfils, selenium is known as an essential component required for the proper functioning of human and animal organisms. A decrease in the concentration of selenium in the body of an alcohol dependent person may inhibit formation of selenoproteins, which in turn may impair the DNA repair, weaken the immunological and anti-inflammatory response, or adversely affect mechanisms preventing the development of diseases like hepatocirrhosis. The depressed activity of selenium in people addicted to alcohol may also cause poor semen quality leading to infertility in men. It is also held responsible for a higher risk of depression.