# Selenium May Soften Plastic Chemicals' Hit to Older Brains, But Only Sometimes

*Conditional neuroprotection: Blood selenium attenuates the cognitive toxicity of DEHP metabolites in older adults.*

- **Evidence Level**: Preliminary
- **Publication Types**: Journal Article
- **Journal**: Neurotoxicology
- **Sample Size**: 573 adults aged 60+
- **Authors**: Shenzhi L, Nan Z, Rongqiang Z
- **Published**: 2026-08-02
- **Topics**: selenium, brain health, environmental toxins
- **DOI**: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuro.2026.103537
- **Original Source**: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42543121/

## Summary

Phthalates from plastics show up in almost everyone's urine, and higher levels of one DEHP breakdown product went along with lower thinking scores in adults over 60. That link only showed up in people with low blood selenium. In those with higher selenium, the pattern reversed. Genetic analyses found no sign that selenium itself protects against Alzheimer's, so the authors say its benefit looks situational, not universal, and they warn against loading up on it.

## Practical Takeaway

This study suggests selenium's brain benefits may depend on your toxin exposure, not apply to everyone.

---

_Canonical: https://longevity-austria.com/en/research/selenium-may-soften-plastic-chemicals-hit-to-older-brains-but-only-sometimes · Part of Longevity Cities · Updated 2026-08-02_