ABSTRACT
Selenium functions as a part of proteins known as selenoproteins. Through these selenoproteins, selenium functions as a defensive mechanism for oxidative stress, for the regulation of thyroid hormone activity, and for the redox status of vitamin C and other molecules. In several of its roles, selenium functions as a dietary antioxidant and thus has been studied for its possible role in chronic diseases. This article reviews recent studies regarding selenium status or supplementation in hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes mellitus. A few studies regarding aging and mortality are also included. What can be ascertained from this current review is that the maintenance of adequate selenium nutriture and, at minimum, the prevention of a deficiency in selenium would be advisable for all individuals. In addition, the indiscriminant use of selenium supplements should be approached with caution until further randomized, controlled trials monitor the effects of such supplementation, especially on a long-term basis.
Subject(s)
Chronic Disease/prevention & control , Diet , Selenium , Selenoproteins/metabolism , Dietary Supplements , Humans , Oxidation-Reduction , Oxidative Stress/drug effects , Selenium/deficiency , Selenium/metabolism , Selenium/pharmacology , Selenium/physiologySubject(s)
Child Welfare/statistics & numerical data , Obesity/epidemiology , Age Distribution , Child , Child, Preschool , Female , Humans , Kentucky/epidemiology , Male , PrevalenceABSTRACT
A computer tutorial on nutritional assessment was developed and used with three different groups of health professions students. Complete data were available for 45 nursing students, 36 physician assistant students, and 68 physical therapy students. Overall for the three groups there was a significant increase (p < 0.0001) from pretest to posttest scores. This increase was not significantly different among the groups, suggesting that a single computer tutorial can be used effectively to teach basics of nutritional assessment to different groups of health professions students and allow sharing of cost for computer instruction among programs.
Subject(s)
Allied Health Occupations/education , Computer-Assisted Instruction , Nutrition Assessment , Adult , Allied Health Occupations/classification , Education, Nursing , Female , Humans , Male , Physical Therapy Specialty/education , Physician Assistants/education , United States , User-Computer InterfaceABSTRACT
The elderly are at nutritional risk as a result of multiple physiological, social, psychological, and economic factors. Elderly persons have a higher incidence of chronic diseases and associated intake of medications that may affect nutrient utilization. Social and economic conditions can adversely affect dietary choices and eating patterns. Physiological functions naturally decline with age, which may influence absorption and metabolism. Loneliness and reluctance to eat may complicate an already marginal situation. This article reviews specific trace metals in relation to the elderly. Our objectives are to provide Dietary Reference Intakes for older adults, to provide information on presenting features and functional consequences of trace metal deficiency, and to discuss potential effects and/or benefits of trace metal supplementation in the elderly.
