Selenium is an important mineral and antioxidant, which has several functions in the human body. As an antioxidant, it is crucial in protecting healthy cells against the damaging effects of metabolism. Selenium also plays an important role in the immune system, stimulating a variety of immune responses^[1].

Selenium deficiency has been observed in a number of studies of HIV-positive people and has been associated with greater risk of disease progression and death. For example, HIV-infected children with low selenium levels died at a younger age, while adults with selenium deficiency were nearly 20 times more likely to die from HIV-related causes^[2][3]. There is also evidence that HIV-infected people with low selenium levels are at a greater risk of opportunistic illnesses, irrespective of CD4 cell count or antiretroviral therapy^[4]. It can also increase the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and shedding of HIV in the female genital tract^[5][6].

There is little direct evidence that supplementation with selenium can improve the outcome of HIV disease. A number of studies have failed to observe an impact of selenium supplements on CD4 cell counts, viral loads or clinical symptoms^[7][8]. However, it can improve the outcome of antiretroviral therapy, according to a Nigerian study of people with advanced HIV disease, by increasing CD4 cell counts, reducing the risk of opportunistic infections and increasing the rate of weight gain^[9].

Selenium can be found in a wide range of foods such as Brazil nuts, fish and shellfish, meat, bread, cereals, eggs, cheese, rice and walnuts.