Immunonutrition

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Nutrition Science
• Gerontology

Background:

• The immune system comprises cellular (T lymphocyte-dependent) and humoral (B lymphocyte-dependent antibody production) immunity.
• Immune function is crucial for protecting against foreign substances and organisms.
• Ageing is associated with declining immune effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the multifaceted influences on immune system function.
• To examine the impact of nutritional status on immunity.
• To understand how ageing affects immune competence.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of immune system mechanisms.
• Analysis of factors affecting immune responses.
• Examination of the interplay between nutrition, disease, and immunity.

Main Results:

• Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM), catabolic illnesses (sepsis, trauma), and specific nutrient deficiencies impair immune function.
• Overnutrition and obesity, linked to diabetes, also negatively affect immune mechanisms.
• Age-related immune decline is worsened by malnutrition.

Conclusions:

• Nutritional status is a critical determinant of immune system efficacy.
• Both undernutrition and overnutrition pose risks to immune health.
• Interventions addressing nutrition may be vital for maintaining immune function, especially in ageing populations.