Selenium May Soften Plastic Chemicals' Hit to Older Brains, But Only Sometimes
Graded Preliminary — cross-sectional NHANES analysis of 573 adults aged 60 and over, yet exposure and cognition were measured at a single time point, so the interaction cannot establish direction.
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This study suggests selenium's brain benefits may depend on your toxin exposure, not apply to everyone.
Phthalates from plastics show up in almost everyone's urine, and higher levels of one DEHP breakdown product went along with lower thinking scores in adults over 60. That link only showed up in people with low blood selenium. In those with higher selenium, the pattern reversed. Genetic analyses found no sign that selenium itself protects against Alzheimer's, so the authors say its benefit looks situational, not universal, and they warn against loading up on it.
Disclaimer: Research summaries are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine.
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