Relationship: Memory and Brain Function and selenium

Evidence supporting the use of: Selenium
For the health condition: Memory and Brain Function

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Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Selenium is an essential trace mineral that plays a role in various physiological processes, including antioxidant defense and thyroid function. Its use for supporting memory and brain function is primarily based on scientific findings rather than traditional medicine. Selenium is a component of selenoproteins, such as glutathione peroxidase, which protect cells from oxidative damage—a process implicated in neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline.

Several observational studies have associated low selenium levels with poorer cognitive performance and a higher risk of cognitive decline, especially in elderly populations. Some interventional studies have also suggested that selenium supplementation might improve certain aspects of cognitive function, particularly in populations with low baseline selenium status. For example, a randomized controlled trial in older adults in Brazil found that Brazil nut supplementation (a rich source of selenium) improved some cognitive functions. Additionally, animal studies indicate that selenium deficiency can exacerbate oxidative stress in the brain and impair learning and memory.

However, the evidence is not robust or consistent. Meta-analyses and reviews highlight the need for larger, well-controlled clinical trials to determine whether selenium supplementation can meaningfully prevent or treat cognitive impairment or dementia in humans. Excessive selenium intake can also be harmful. Thus, while there is a scientific rationale and some emerging evidence for selenium's role in brain function, the strength of evidence supporting its supplementation specifically for memory and cognitive enhancement is currently modest.

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acai berry
acetyl l-carnitine
algal oil
alpha-pinene
amino acids
anchovies
anthocyanins
ashwagandha
asparagus
astaxanthin
waterhyssop
beet
berry flavor
beta caryophyllene
bifidobacterium longum
bilberry
black currant
black garlic
sesame
black tea
blackberry
blueberry
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broccoli
caprylic acid
catechins
caterpillar mushroom
chaga mushroom
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choline
cinnamon
citicoline
coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
coffee fruit
cordyceps
creatine monohydrate
turmeric
curcumin
d-alpha tocopherol
DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
diallyl disulfide (DADS)
DPA (docosapentaenoic acid)
eleuthero
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)
fisetin
fish protein
folate
fruit and vegetable blend (proprietary)
fruit blend (proprietary)
ginkgo biloba
glycerophosphocholine (GPC)
gooseberry
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grape
green tea
guarana
guayusa
hesperetin
huperzine A
inositol
jujube
kale
krill oil
kudzu
l-5-methyltetrahydrofolate glucosamine salt (5-MTHF)
l-carnitine
l-carnosine
l-serine
l-taurine
l-theanine
l-tyrosine
lactobacillus reuteri
lecithin
lion's mane
lutein
luteolin
maca
mackerel
marine lipid
matcha
medium chain triglycerides (MCT)
moringa
muira puama
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naringin
niacin (vitamin B3)
niacinamide (vitamin B3)
nicotinamide riboside
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oleic acid
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glucose
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Evidence supporting the use of: Selenium
For the health condition: Memory and Brain Function

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Memory and Brain Function

Other health conditions supported by selenium

Products containing selenium

Health Concerns

Brands

Evidence supporting the use of: SeleniumFor the health condition: Memory and Brain Function

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Memory and Brain Function

Other health conditions supported by selenium

Products containing selenium

Evidence supporting the use of: Selenium
For the health condition: Memory and Brain Function