Factors Affecting Immunity
How and why do you think Nutritional factors, psychological factors, drugs, and complementary and alternative medications affect the immune system in older adults?
Nutritional factors, psychological factors, drugs, and complementary and alternative medications can all significantly impact the immune system in older adults due to their various effects on immune function, inflammation, and overall health. Here’s a detailed exploration of how and why each of these factors affects the immune system in older adults:
Nutritional Factors
How Nutritional Factors Affect the Immune System:
- Micronutrients: Vitamins (e.g., A, C, D, E, B vitamins) and minerals (e.g., zinc, iron, selenium) are essential for the proper functioning of immune cells and pathways. They play roles in cell signaling, antibody production, and maintaining barrier integrity.
- Macronutrients: Proteins, carbohydrates, and fats provide energy and building blocks for immune cells. Protein is crucial for antibody production and tissue repair, while fats (especially omega-3 fatty acids) help regulate inflammation.
- Gut Health: A healthy gut microbiota is essential for immune function. Fiber, probiotics, and prebiotics support gut health, influencing immune responses and reducing inflammation…
Nutritional factors, psychological factors, drugs, and complementary and alternative medications can all significantly impact the immune system in older adults due to their various effects on immune function, inflammation, and overall health. Here’s a detailed exploration of how and why each of these factors affects the immune system in older adults:
Nutritional Factors
How Nutritional Factors Affect the Immune System:
- Micronutrients: Vitamins (e.g., A, C, D, E, B vitamins) and minerals (e.g., zinc, iron, selenium) are essential for the proper functioning of immune cells and pathways. They play roles in cell signaling, antibody production, and maintaining barrier integrity.
- Macronutrients: Proteins, carbohydrates, and fats provide energy and building blocks for immune cells. Protein is crucial for antibody production and tissue repair, while fats (especially omega-3 fatty acids) help regulate inflammation. Factors Affecting Immunity
- Gut Health: A healthy gut microbiota is essential for immune function. Fiber, probiotics, and prebiotics support gut health, influencing immune responses and reducing inflammation…
