Published in the PLOS ONE journal, this study analyzed data from over 74,000 mother-child pairs in Japan, focusing on maternal blood levels of various metals and trace elements, including selenium. Researchers found that children born to mothers with higher selenium levels were less likely to develop streptococcal infections – such as strep throat or scarlet fever – between the ages of 3 and 4.
The association between elevated maternal selenium and reduced infection risk was strongest among mothers with the highest selenium levels. Selenium is already known to support immune function, and this study reinforces its role in enhancing early childhood immunity against bacterial infections.
The finding adds to the known benefits of higher selenium levels during pregnancy, which include protecting babies from future high blood pressure.
To learn more about the importance of micronutrients during pregnancy, read parts one and two of the special pregnancy feature article on our website.
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May 30, 2025Selenium Exposure During Pregnancy May Reduce Childhood Streptococcal Infections
News
Scientists from Hokkaido University in Japan have discovered that exposure to certain metals and trace elements during pregnancy may affect a child’s risk of developing streptococcal infections.
[Source: medicalxpress.com]
[Image source: Adobe Stock]
Comment
Published in the PLOS ONE journal, this study analyzed data from over 74,000 mother-child pairs in Japan, focusing on maternal blood levels of various metals and trace elements, including selenium. Researchers found that children born to mothers with higher selenium levels were less likely to develop streptococcal infections – such as strep throat or scarlet fever – between the ages of 3 and 4.
The association between elevated maternal selenium and reduced infection risk was strongest among mothers with the highest selenium levels. Selenium is already known to support immune function, and this study reinforces its role in enhancing early childhood immunity against bacterial infections.
The finding adds to the known benefits of higher selenium levels during pregnancy, which include protecting babies from future high blood pressure.
To learn more about the importance of micronutrients during pregnancy, read parts one and two of the special pregnancy feature article on our website.
Dr. Rath Health Foundation
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