Vitamin E and selenium status of patients receiving short-term total parenteral nutrition

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Abstract
In a prospective protocol, plasma tocopherols, selenium (Se), Se-dependent glutathione peroxidase, platelet aggregation and erythrocyte hemolysis were measured in 23 control subjects, and 15 patients receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN), before and after 2 wk of TPN unsupplemented with vitamin E and Se. The results indicate that short-term TPN did not alter status of these nutrients. However, TPN patients had significantly lower plasma levels of Se (p < 0.01) and α-tocopherol (p < 0.01) relative to control subjects. Low plasma levels, with no attendant decrease in function, suggest a marginal depletion. In view of this, and considering the low amount of vitamin E and Se supplied by the TPN solutions, supplementation with these nutrients is recommended.