Ageing, Nutrition, and Infection: The Forgotten Triad
1Infectious Diseases Department, Morriston Hospital, Swansea, UK.
Abstract:
Ageing is a complex sociocultural and physiological process characterised by declines in nutritional and functional status and the immune response. The ageing immune system is plagued by both quantitative and qualitative deficits in the innate and adaptive immune system characterised by reduced responsiveness to de novo antigens and vaccines, along with low-level inflammation which is modulated by nutrition. In this short review, we will highlight the vicious cycle of infection and malnutrition, which is prevalent in the elderly. In doing so we will highlight the relevant contributions of both macronutrient and micronutrient deficiency to immune system dysfunction highlighting the need to research and modify nutrition in the elderly to improve health-related outcomes and protect healthcare systems from anticipated rises in the ageing population.
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