Micronutrients that affect immunosenescence

Abstract

The immune system undergoes some adverse changes throughout aging, many of which have been implicated in the increased morbidity and mortality related to infection in the elderly. In addition to intrinsic alterations in the immune system with aging, the elderly are more likely to have poor nutritional status, which further affects the already impaired immune function. Micronutrient deficiencies are a recognized global public health problem, and poor nutritional status predisposes to certain infections. Immune function may be ameliorated by restoring deficient micronutrients to recommended levels, thereby increasing resistance to infection and supporting faster recovery when infected. This review looks at the effects of micronutrient supplementation on immune function during aging.