Assessment of selenium intake levels through typical Pakistani diet

Abstract

PurposeSelenium deficiency in combination with iodine also has profound effect in the generation of thyroid related diseases and on neonatal growth and its survival. In Pakistan, occurrence of thyroid related diseases are common. Low levels of iodine in food have been established and published estimates are available, but data on selenium intake levels were scarce. The purpose of this paper is to generate baseline analytical data on dietary intake of selenium to investigate its impact on occurrence of thyroid related diseases in Pakistani population.Design/methodology/approachFood samples were collected from major cities/districts of the country using market basket method. Daily diets were prepared and analyzed by using neutron activation analysis.FindingsMeasured levels varied from 51 to 453ng/g with geometric mean value (GM) × geometric standard deviation (GSD) of 163 × 1.6ng/g. This leads to daily intake variation from 31 to 270 μg/d with GM × GSD value of 97 × 1.6 μg/d. The measured levels were compared with reported values of other countries and recommended estimated safe and adequate daily dietary intake (ESADDI) range of 50‐200 μg/d for adults. The estimated selenium levels are adequate and safe as per international standard.Originality/valueThe paper provides baseline data and indicates that Pakistani diet contains sufficient amount of selenium and may not be cause of concern for thyroid related diseases in our country.