What is a significant consequence of selenium deficiency?

A significant consequence of selenium deficiency is heart failure, particularly due to its role in the production of antioxidant enzymes like glutathione peroxidase. Selenium is crucial for maintaining heart health, as it helps protect cells from oxidative damage and supports the immune system. A deficiency in selenium can lead to a range of issues related to heart function, including conditions such as Keshan disease, a type of cardiomyopathy that arises from selenium deficiency and is characterized by an enlarged heart and impaired heart function.

In contrast, iron deficiency anemia is specifically linked to inadequate iron intake, high blood pressure is influenced by a variety of factors including diet and lifestyle rather than solely selenium levels, and kidney stones are usually associated with mineral imbalances but are not directly tied to selenium deficiency. Thus, heart disease stands out as a direct consequence of lack of selenium in the diet.