Selenium Deficiency

Selenium deficiency, which often occurs in association with vitamin E deficiency, is a relatively common trace mineral deficiency in Ireland. Both selenium and vitamin E are important components of the animal’s antioxidant defence mechanisms. Selenium is an essential component of glutathione peroxidise (GSH-Px), an enzyme which detoxifies lipid peroxides and limits the build-up of oxygen free radicals which can cause cellular destruction in the body. Vitamin E plays a similar role in protecting cell membranes. Enormous quantities of free radicles can be produced in muscle during times of peak physical exertion, such as in calves running around a field following turnout. If young calves, or lambs, are deficient in selenium, then there is a risk of severe muscular damage and the disease called ‘‘White Muscle Disease’’.