MIAMI -- Every year, 40,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with HIV and more than one million live with the disease. While research dollars continue to try and uncover new therapies, it doesn't always take an expensive drug to have a large impact.

Selenium is a potent antioxidant that can be found in turkey, beef and green veggies.

Dr. Barry Hurwitz of the University of Miami Medical School has studied the effect of selenium in HIV patients.

"I liken the effect of selenium to a lion tamer in a zoo. What it tends to do is make viruses more docile. Selenium helps to boost the immune system," said Hurwitz.

His study on 262 HIV-positive patients showed viral load increased among HIV patients on a placebo, but didn't in those taking selenium.

One theory on why selenium may benefit patients with HIV is that the supplement may repair damage to immune cells. Hurwitz adds that another strong possibility is that selenium works directly to suppress HIV replication.

Eddie Orozco, who has been HIV positive for 21 years, took part in the study. While taking selenium, he had undetectable levels of HIV.

Eddie's viral load has dropped from 20,000 to 49, which is considered undetectable.

"I've had pretty much, about, all the treatments that are available. It was pretty astonishing to see the results," said Orozco.

"I think it could be an excellent adjunct -- not a replacement for anti-HIV medications, but an excellent adjunct to therapy," said Hurwitz.

No side effects from the daily 200 microgram dose showed up in patients.

For more information contact Omar Montejo by email or by phone at (305) 243-5654.