The Hidden Mineral Signal Behind Osteoarthritis: Selenium and Zinc Are 7–9% Lower in Women With OA, Across 700 Million Affected Worldwide
Osteoarthritis is one of the world’s most common joint diseases, diagnosed in about 700 million people each year, and it disproportionately affects older women. A team from Sechenov University looked at minerals in the blood to understand whether trace elements might be part of the story. They analyzed 13 microelements in the blood of more than 300 women suffering from OA and divided the participants into groups by the severity of their joint damage to better assess mineral impact.
In This Article:
How the Study Was Done: 13 Microelements, 300+ Women, Grouped by Disease Severity
Researchers measured 13 trace elements in blood samples from the participants. By dividing the women into groups according to the degree of joint damage, they aimed to see how mineral levels correlate with disease progression and severity.
Key Findings: Selenium and Zinc Dip, Iron and Vanadium Also Decrease
The results showed that selenium and zinc were 7–9% lower in women with OA than in healthy participants. In addition, iron and vanadium levels were reduced in the OA group. The researchers accounted for age, body weight, and the presence of other diseases to strengthen the reliability of the findings.
Implications: Could Mineral Deficiencies Fuel Oxidative Stress and Inflammation?
Experts suggest that lower levels of selenium and zinc may contribute to OA by increasing oxidative stress and inflammatory processes in the body. The study does not prove causation, but it points to a potential nutritional and metabolic link that warrants deeper investigation.
Important Disclaimer: Educational Content, Not Medical Advice
The materials on this page are informational and intended for educational purposes. They should not be used as medical recommendations. Diagnosis and treatment decisions are the exclusive prerogative of your treating physician. This summary reflects a single study; more research is needed. Always consult a healthcare professional for personal health concerns.
