Brazil Nuts, a Double-Edged Sword

Eating some popular nuts, such as Brazil nuts, provides the body with essential vitamins and minerals, in addition to being a rich source of antioxidants and low in unsaturated fats.

Like vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, and zinc, this nutritional combination has long been associated with numerous health benefits, such as improved heart health, enhanced brain function, reduced inflammation, and strengthened bones.

A large part of these benefits is due to selenium, an essential mineral that supports immunity, aids in DNA production, and improves thyroid function. However, despite its essential properties, this mineral should be consumed with extreme caution.

Health authorities recommend 55 micrograms of selenium per day for adults, while a single Brazil nut contains more than 90 micrograms. This means that a small serving of nuts (6 nuts) may exceed the safe upper limit of 400 micrograms per day.

Despite the expected benefits, doctors warn that exceeding this limit may lead to symptoms of selenium toxicity, such as bad breath, brittle nails, hair loss, and gastrointestinal disturbances, and may develop into kidney or heart problems.

Although previous studies have considered selenium to be a helpful factor in cancer prevention, recent research has reconsidered this hypothesis. A scientific review conducted by the Cochrane Collaboration concluded that there is no evidence to support the effectiveness of selenium supplements in reducing the risk of cancer. It even found that some study participants showed an increased incidence of certain cancers, such as prostate cancer.

A study published in Nature revealed that both low and high levels of selenium were associated with an increased risk of cancer, particularly in the stomach, colon, and lung. The study found that the "safe" range was between 111 and 124 micrograms per day.

In another study, selenium supplements were associated with a 25% increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma, the second most common type of skin cancer.

In addition, doctors warn that taking excessive amounts of selenium may interfere with the effects of some medications, such as contraceptives, cholesterol medications, and tranquilizers, potentially increasing the potential risk.

According to experts, the most important factor in benefiting from selenium remains dosage. While it is an essential element, consuming too much of it can have adverse effects.

Source: Daily Mail - https://ar.rt.com/zpxd - Published on 22-04-2025

Happynass Editor: Right? Too much of something is bad and too little of something is not enough. the key is the balance.