NutriStack
Combined Oral Contraceptive and Selenium, a synergy.
Combined oral contraceptive use is associated with lower serum selenium and reduced glutathione peroxidase activity in several studies, contributing to lower antioxidant capacity. Selenium adequacy also supports normal thyroid hormone metabolism, which is relevant because COCs raise thyroid-binding globulin.
One pair, every claim cited. The two substances, the type, the mechanism, the recommendation, and the primary literature.
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At a glance
- Substances
- Combined Oral Contraceptive and Selenium
- Pair type
- Synergy
- Evidence (highest tier)
- Moderate
- Source citations
- 2 sources
- Stack Score effect
- +2 to your Stack Score (per scored synergy row).
- Scope
- Supplement × Prescription
- Last verified
- May 30, 2026
Synergy · Moderate evidence
Synergy
What is happening. Combined oral contraceptive use is associated with lower serum selenium and reduced glutathione peroxidase activity in several studies, contributing to lower antioxidant capacity. Selenium adequacy also supports normal thyroid hormone metabolism, which is relevant because COCs raise thyroid-binding globulin.
Mechanism. COC-induced oxidative stress increases consumption of selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase. Estrogen may also reduce intestinal selenium absorption or accelerate renal clearance.
Recommendation. A daily multivitamin or 55-100 mcg of selenium is reasonable for women on combined oral contraception. Brazil nuts (1-2 per day) provide a natural dietary source.
Sources (2)
- Akinloye O, Adebayo TO, Oguntibeju OO, Oparinde DP, Ogunyemi EO. Effects of contraceptives on serum trace elements, calcium and phosphorus levels. West Indian Med J. 2011;60(3):308-15. PMID 22224344
- Basciani S, Porcaro G. Counteracting side effects of combined oral contraceptives through the administration of specific micronutrients. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2022;26(13):4846-4862. PMID 35856377
Stack Score
How this pair moves the number.
Effect on the composite score
If both Combined Oral Contraceptive and Selenium are in the same stack, this pair applies +2 to your Stack Score (per scored synergy row).
The full algorithm, the clamping rules, and four worked stacks are documented at /methodology/stack-score.
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