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Nutrients and immune responses
1Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville.
Rheumatic Diseases Clinics of North America
|May 1, 1991
Summary
Nutritional deficiencies significantly impair immune function, but correcting these deficiencies typically restores immunity. While some nutrient supplements can boost immunity, excessive doses may suppress it, highlighting the importance of adequate nutrition for immune system integrity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Nutrition Science
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Nutritional status profoundly impacts immune system function.
- Deficiencies in various nutrients, from trace elements to protein, can compromise immunological responses.
- Maintaining adequate nutrition is critical for immune system integrity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of nutritional deficiencies on immunologic functions.
- To discuss the effects of nutrient repletion and supplementation on the immune response.
- To emphasize the essential role of adequate nutrition in supporting immune health.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on nutritional deficiencies and immune function.
- Analysis of studies on nutrient repletion and immune response.
- Examination of research on single nutrient supplementation and mega-dose therapies.
Main Results:
- Nutritional deficiencies across a spectrum of nutrients impair immune functions.
- Repletion of deficient nutrients generally restores immune responses.
- While some single nutrient supplementation can enhance immunity, mega-dose therapies may suppress it.
Conclusions:
- Adequate nutrition is fundamental for maintaining a healthy and functional immune system.
- Nutrient repletion is an effective strategy to restore impaired immunologic functions.
- Careful consideration of nutrient dosage is necessary to avoid unintended immunosuppression.