HIV infection is associated with a higher risk of tuberculosis and death. Selenium deficiency is associated with an increased risk of HIV infection. Several trials have shown that selenium supplementation of patients with HIV is associated with beneficial outcomes [Muzembo 2022].
![HIV infections make individuals susceptible to other infections HIV symptoms](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_auto,q_glossy,ret_img,w_300,h_268/https://seleniumfacts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/HIV-symptoms-300x268.png)
Muzembo et al conducted a systematic review of six randomized controlled trials of selenium supplementation of HIV-infected patients. They reached the following conclusions [Muzembo 2022]:
- Daily supplementation with 200 mcg selenium slowed the loss of CD4 cells in HIV-infected patients.
- The length of selenium supplementation and HIV infection studies varied from 9 to 24 months.
- The selenium supplements were well tolerated in all six studies.
- Further investigation of the effects of daily selenium supplementation of HIV-infected patients is warranted.
Note: CD4 cells are a particular type of white blood cells that help the immune system fight infections. CD4 cells are also known as CD4 lymphocytes and helper T cells [MedlinePlus 2022].
If untreated, the HIV infection will destroy many CD4 cells, and the immune system will not be able to fight off opportunistic infections [MedlinePlus 2022].