The selenium status of Belgian population groups : II. Newborns, children, and the aged.

The selenium state of 40 elderly Belgian people, residing in geriatric homes, has been evaluated. Data are presented on the selenium (Se) contents of their blood, plasma, and erythrocytes. The activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) has been assayed. All data were compared with those obtained for 164 young, working adults as presented in Part I of this study. Plasma selenium levels were significantly lower in the old (73 ng/mL) as compared to the young people (97 ng/mL), but erythrocyte Se levels (200 ng/mL) and GSH-Px activity were significantly higher.The selenium concentration in plasma during infancy has also been estimated. The results reveal a very low Se level during the first months of life, with a gradual increase with age. The results are discussed in the light of literature data.