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Physical Activity and Diet Shape the Immune System during Aging
Christopher Weyh1, Karsten Krüger1, Barbara Strasser2
1Department of Exercise Physiology and Sports Therapy, Institute of Sports Science, University of Giessen, 35394 Giessen, Germany.
Nutrients
|March 4, 2020
Summary
Aging impacts the immune system, increasing infection and disease risks. Lifestyle factors like exercise and diet can protect immunity, offering strategies to mitigate immune aging.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gerontology
- Lifestyle Medicine
Background:
- Immune system remodeling with age (immunosenescence) leads to functional decline.
- Clinical consequences include increased infections, autoimmunity, cancer, and reduced vaccine efficacy.
- Inflammaging and maladaptive responses accelerate aging and morbidity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review immunoprotection strategies against age-related immune decline.
- To discuss the mechanisms of physical activity and exercise interventions.
- To examine dietary interventions, including tryptophan, n-3 PUFAs, and probiotics.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on immunosenescence and lifestyle interventions.
- Analysis of physiological and clinical aspects of immune aging.
- Exploration of specific nutrients and probiotics impacting immune pathways.
Main Results:
- Physical activity and exercise positively influence immune aging.
- Dietary factors like tryptophan and n-3 PUFAs show immunoprotective potential.
- Probiotics and modulation of the kynurenine pathway are key areas of focus.
Conclusions:
- Lifestyle interventions, particularly exercise and diet, are crucial for immune health in aging.
- Targeting specific pathways like kynurenine offers therapeutic possibilities.
- Further research into these interventions can combat age-related immune dysfunction.
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