Optimal nutritional status for a well-functioning immune system is an important factor to protect against viral infections

Calder et al. (2020) details the role of nutrition in supporting the immune system, including the important and complementary functions of vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D, E, and folate, trace elements such as zinc, iron, selenium, magnesium, and copper, as well as omega-3 fatty acids like eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. It is said that deficiencies in the intakes of these nutrients are widespread and have resulted in decreased resistance to infections and increased disease burden. The researchers close with the following conclusions: supplementation with the above micronutrients and omega-3 fatty acids is a safe, effective, and low-cost strategy to help support optimal immune function; supplementation above the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), but within recommended upper safety limits, for specific nutrients such as vitamins C and D is warranted; and public health officials are encouraged to include nutritional strategies in their recommendations to improve public health. [NPIDs: COVID, coronavirus, pandemic, immunity, the immune system, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, folate, zinc, iron, selenium, magnesium, copper, omega-3s, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, DHA, EPA, COVID-19]

Year: 2020

Reference: Calder, P. C., Carr, A. C., Gombart, A. F., & Eggersdorfer, M. (2020). Optimal Nutritional Status for a Well-Functioning Immune System Is an Important Factor to Protect against Viral Infections. Nutrients, 12(4), 1181. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12041181