Nutritional Modulation of Immune Function: Analysis of Evidence, Mechanisms, and Clinical Relevance

It is well-established that the nutritional deficiency or inadequacy can impair immune functions. Growing evidence suggests that for certain nutrients increased intake above currently recommended levels may help optimize immune functions including improving defense function and thus resistance to infection, while maintaining tolerance. This review will examine the data representing the research on prominent intervention agents n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), micronutrients (zinc, vitamins D and E), and functional foods including probiotics and tea components for their immunological effects, working mechanisms, and clinical relevance. Many of these nutritive and non-nutritive food components are related…

• UD
  U.S. Department of Agriculture

  Award: 58-1950-4-003
• NR
  National Research Foundation
• NR
  National Research Foundation of Korea
• AR
  Agricultural Research Service
• CI
  Canadian Institutes of Health Research