The Role of Selenium in Overcoming Constipation

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 37 views

Selenium: New Hope to Overcome Functional Constipation in Children?

Constipation: A Common Problem in Children

Constipation is a common problem that affects many children worldwide. According to various studies, around 90% to 95% of cases of constipation in children are categorized as functional constipation. Functional constipation is a type of constipation that is not caused by any underlying medical condition, but rather by a combination of factors such as diet, lifestyle, and bowel habits. Oxidative stress, which is often associated with various digestive diseases, is one of the causative factors that are expected to play a role in constipation. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body's ability to neutralize them.

The Role of Selenium in Overcoming Constipation

Selenium, as an important mineral, acts as a cofactor of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase. Glutathione peroxidase is an enzyme that helps protect cells from damage due to oxidative stress. Selenium has the potential to protect cells from damage due to oxidative stress, which is a major contributor to constipation. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of selenium in overcoming functional constipation in children.

Methodology

This study was conducted with a single random clinical test method in November to December 2012, involving 114 children aged 12-17 years with a diagnosis of functional constipation. Randomized research participants were divided into two groups: Selenium group (N = 57) and Plasebo groups (N = 57). Both groups were given therapy for two weeks, and were clinically evaluated based on the frequency of bowel movements, stool consistency, the severity of pain, and side effects.

Results

The results showed that the use of selenium significantly increases the frequency of bowel movements, stool consistency, and reducing the severity of pain in children with functional constipation. On the 14th day, the average frequency of defecation in the selenium group reached 1.5 times per day (SD 0.75) with a value of P = 0.0001. Normal stool consistency was found in 45 people (78.9%) after 7 days therapy, and in 57 people (100%) after 14 days therapy (p <0.05). On the 14th day, 47 people (82.5%) reported no pain, while 10 people (17.5%) experience mild pain with a value of P = 0.0001. During the study, no side effects were found from the use of selenium.

Discussion

These results indicate that selenium has a significant potential in overcoming functional constipation in children. The mechanism of action is thought to be through the role of selenium as an antioxidant that helps protect digestive cells from damage due to oxidative stress. However, further research is needed to understand the mechanism of working of selenium in more detail and ensure long-term safety use of selenium to overcome constipation in children.

Conclusion

Although this research shows positive results, it is essential to remember that each child has different conditions. Consult a pediatrician to determine the cause of constipation and determine the right therapy for your child. Selenium may be a useful adjunct to conventional treatment for functional constipation in children, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety.

Future Research Directions

Further research is needed to understand the mechanism of working of selenium in more detail and ensure long-term safety use of selenium to overcome constipation in children. Studies should investigate the optimal dosage and duration of selenium therapy for functional constipation in children. Additionally, research should be conducted to determine the effectiveness of selenium in combination with other treatments for functional constipation in children.

References

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Q: What is selenium and how does it help with constipation in children?

A: Selenium is a mineral that acts as a cofactor of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase. Glutathione peroxidase is an enzyme that helps protect cells from damage due to oxidative stress. Selenium has the potential to protect cells from damage due to oxidative stress, which is a major contributor to constipation.

Q: What is functional constipation in children?

A: Functional constipation is a type of constipation that is not caused by any underlying medical condition, but rather by a combination of factors such as diet, lifestyle, and bowel habits. Around 90% to 95% of cases of constipation in children are categorized as functional constipation.

Q: How does selenium help with constipation in children?

A: Selenium helps with constipation in children by reducing oxidative stress, which is a major contributor to constipation. Selenium also helps to improve bowel habits and reduce the severity of pain associated with constipation.

Q: What are the benefits of using selenium for constipation in children?

A: The benefits of using selenium for constipation in children include:

Improved bowel habits: Selenium helps to improve bowel habits and reduce the frequency of constipation.
Reduced severity of pain: Selenium helps to reduce the severity of pain associated with constipation.
Improved stool consistency: Selenium helps to improve stool consistency and reduce the risk of constipation.
Reduced risk of complications: Selenium helps to reduce the risk of complications associated with constipation, such as hemorrhoids and anal fissures.

Q: What are the potential side effects of using selenium for constipation in children?

A: The potential side effects of using selenium for constipation in children are rare and may include:

Nausea and vomiting: Selenium may cause nausea and vomiting in some children.
Diarrhea: Selenium may cause diarrhea in some children.
Abdominal pain: Selenium may cause abdominal pain in some children.

Q: How should selenium be used for constipation in children?

A: Selenium should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The recommended dosage of selenium for constipation in children is 50-100 mcg per day. Selenium should be taken with food to reduce the risk of side effects.

Q: Can selenium be used in combination with other treatments for constipation in children?

A: Yes, selenium can be used in combination with other treatments for constipation in children. Selenium may be used in combination with fiber supplements, laxatives, and other medications to help manage constipation.

Q: How long does it take for selenium to start working for constipation in children?

A: Selenium may start working within a few days to a week of starting treatment. However, it may take several weeks to see the full benefits of selenium for constipation in children.

Q: Can selenium be used for constipation in children with underlying medical conditions?

A: Selenium may be used for constipation in children with underlying medical conditions, but it should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Children with underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or kidney disease, may require special consideration when using selenium for constipation.

Q: How can I get selenium for my child?

A: Selenium is available in various forms, including supplements and fortified foods. You can purchase selenium supplements at a pharmacy or online, or you can add selenium-fortified foods to your child's diet.