Effect of Long-Term Trace Element Supplementation on Blood Trace Element Levels and Absorption of 75Se, 54Mn and 65Zn

The trace element content of a “refined western” diet is often low and as Sweden is also a low selenium area it can be difficult to reach recommended or the so called “safe and adequate levels” of selenium as well as of other trace elements on a normal diet. This has led to widespread use of trace element supplements in various combinations. To increase our knowledge of the metabolic handling of trace elements in humans, we have measured the effect of daily intake of a trace element supplement over a long period on commonly used indices of trace element status and on the absorption of zinc, selenium and manganese from the supplement in healthy subjects.