Brazil Nut Butter vs. Supplementation: Improving Selenium Status in Vegans and Omnivores

This randomized controlled trial compared Brazil nut butter with a selenium dietary supplement in improving selenium status among 44 vegans and 42 omnivores. Participants consumed either placebo, Brazil nut butter, or a supplement providing 55 µg selenium daily for two weeks. Serum selenium, glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPX3), and selenoprotein P (SELENOP) were assessed. Vegans had lower baseline selenium intake compared to omnivores, correlating with reduced biomarker levels. Both Brazil nut butter and supplements significantly increased serum selenium and SELENOP, with a stronger response in vegans. Findings suggest Brazil nut butter is an effective, plant-based selenium source for improving nutritional status.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39891729/