Selenium May Protect Babies From Lead and Mercury in the Womb

Babies born to mothers with higher selenium levels had lower lead and lower mercury in their cord blood. Selenium might be acting as a shield against toxic metals in the womb.

What the Study Found

A 2026 study in Biol Trace Elem Res collected cord blood from 55 newborns in Memphis, Tennessee, and measured levels of cadmium, lead, manganese, mercury, and selenium. They compared babies born to mothers with anemia to those without.

Mothers with anemia had significantly lower cord blood lead (0.24 vs. 0.33 µg/L) and lower mercury (0.19 vs. 0.55 µg/L). They also had higher selenium levels (184 vs. 160 µg/L). The researchers suspect selenium consumption explains why these babies had less toxic metal exposure.

How Selenium Helps

Selenium binds to mercury and reduces its toxicity. It also competes with lead for absorption pathways. Previous research has shown that adequate selenium intake can lower blood levels of both metals. This study suggests that protective effect extends to the baby through the placenta.

The Takeaway for Pregnancy

This doesn't mean anemia is good. It means the selenium that often accompanies certain dietary patterns may help reduce toxic metal transfer to the baby. Making sure you get enough selenium during pregnancy could offer real protection.

Where to Get Selenium

Brazil nuts are the richest source. Just one or two a day provides more than enough. Other sources include seafood, eggs, and sunflower seeds. Talk to your doctor about prenatal supplements that include selenium. For safer products during pregnancy, check out non-toxic baby products.

Also see glass food storage for safer alternatives.

Source: Isennock S, Elabiad M. (2026). Biol Trace Elem Res.