A recent comprehensive review has cast a spotlight on prevalent nutrient deficiencies among Britons, revealing that nearly half of the adult population is lacking in selenium, a crucial mineral vital for healthy heart function. The analysis, published in the journal Food and Nutrition Sciences, identified widespread low levels of several key nutrients, including vitamin A, folate (B9), vitamin D, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids, alongside the alarming deficit in selenium.

Selenium, often overlooked, plays a critical role in various bodily functions. Its antioxidant properties are particularly beneficial for muscles, including the heart, as it helps combat oxidative stress—an imbalance that can lead to organ damage. Deficiency in this essential mineral can manifest in a range of health issues, such as thyroid problems, a weakened immune system, muscle weakness, and psychological symptoms like depression, anxiety, and confusion. Previous research has even linked adequate selenium intake to a lower risk of heart disease.

The study, led by public health nutritionist Dr. Emma Derbyshire, highlighted specific demographics at higher risk. A staggering 45 percent of all adults were found to be selenium deficient. This issue appears to originate early, with over a third of 11 to 18-year-olds not meeting recommended intake levels. Worryingly, women demonstrated a particular vulnerability to selenium deficiency; the review found that 45 percent of teenage girls and a significant 57 percent of women aged 19 to 64 were deficient. This trend extends into later life, with over half of elderly women also affected.

To address these deficiencies, the NHS recommends specific daily doses: 75µg for men aged 19 to 64, and 60µg for women in the same age bracket. For children, the requirements vary by age, with one to three-year-olds needing 15µg/day and 11 to 14-year-olds requiring 45µg/day. These amounts can often be met through diet alone. Rich dietary sources of selenium include Brazil nuts (with just one large nut often sufficient for an adult's daily needs), seafood like salmon (roughly one and a half fillets for men, one for women), various meats, eggs (three boiled eggs for an 11-14 year old), and dairy products such as cottage cheese.

While dietary intake is the preferred method, selenium supplements are available. However, caution is advised against excessive consumption. The NHS warns that taking more than 350µg of selenium per day can lead to selenosis, a condition that can cause hair and nail loss in milder cases and, in severe instances, can be fatal. The Department of Health and Social Care considers doses of 350µg or less per day to be generally safe.

These fresh findings are based on a thorough analysis of data from the Office of National Statistic's UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey, which collected information on the nutrition and diet of UK children and adults between 2019 and 2023. The authors noted a continuing decline in public health nutrition, a trend predicted years ago when vitamin D, calcium, iron, and iodine shortfalls were most common. They emphasized that if current poor nutrient levels persist, the nation's future health and wellness are at significant risk.

In light of these findings, the review calls for urgent public health interventions. This includes widespread education about dietary sources of specific vitamins and minerals, particularly targeting young girls, and implementing policies for fairer food costs for healthy options. Without such comprehensive nutrition policies and accessibility to nutritious food, the NHS is likely to face increased strain and higher costs from treating the escalating health consequences of poor-quality diets across the population.