UNIVERSITY OF CAPE COAST

COLLEGE OF HEALTH AND ALLIED SCIENCES

DEPARTMENT OF BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE

BMD 416:HUMAN NUTRITION

INDEX NUMBER: AH/BMS/19/0088

TITLE: THE ROLE OF NUTRITION IN INFECTION AND

IMMUNITY

DATE:2nd August,2023
Introduction

People frequently looked for specialised foods or vitamin supplements that are thought to
strengthen immunity during the Covid-19 season or during times of illness. Citrus fruits,
chicken soup, and tea with honey are a few well-known examples of foods that contain
vitamin C. However, the design of our immune system is intricate and is influenced by a
perfect harmony of many factors, not just diet, and especially not by any one particular food
or nutrient. But the best way to prepare the body to fight infection and disease is through a
balanced diet rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals, along with healthy lifestyle choices
like getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and reducing stress.

INFECTION

Infections are diseases caused by pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, that
can cause various types of infections in humans and animals. Common types include bacterial
infections, viral infections, fungal infections, and parasitic infections. Infections can range
from mild to severe, depending on the pathogen and the infected individual's immune
response. Common infections include respiratory tract, skin, and urinary tract infections. To
prevent infections, practice good hygiene, avoid close contact, and take care of our dietary
lifestyles.

THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

The immune system is also a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together
to protect the body from harmful pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It
plays a vital role in maintaining the body's health and defending against infections and
diseases. It consists of two main components: the innate immune system and the adaptive
immune system. The innate immune system is the body's first line of defense against
infections, providing a rapid, nonspecific response. It includes physical barriers, immune
cells, and physical barriers like skin and mucous membranes. The adaptive immune system,
on the other hand, develops throughout life in response to specific pathogens, producing
antibodies and activating T cells. This system is responsible for immunological memory,
enabling a quicker and more robust response upon re-exposure to previously encountered
pathogens.The immune system initiates a series of coordinated responses to eliminate the
threat, including inflammation, antibody production, cell-mediated immunity, and immune
memory.
NUTRITION

There are six main categories of nutrients: water, vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fats.
Proteins are essential for tissue building, immune system support, and enzyme production.
Fats are essential for proper functioning, growth, and health.

Nutrition and Immune Function

Macronutrients and Immunity

Protein: Protein is a fundamental component of immune cells, antibodies, and cytokines,

making it crucial for immune function (Calder et al., 2017). Deficiencies in protein intake can
lead to impaired immune responses, affecting the body's ability to defend against infections.
Several studies have emphasized the significance of protein in immune responses, as it is
involved in the production and function of immune cells and immune-regulatory molecules
(Li & Gleeson, 2004).

Fats: Certain fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids, have been shown to possess anti-
inflammatory properties, which can help modulate immune responses (Calder, 2013).
Omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to enhanced immune function and reduced
inflammation, contributing to the body's ability to combat infections. Additionally, research
indicates that lipid mediators derived from omega-3 fatty acids play a role in the resolution of
inflammation and the regulation of immune cell function (Serhan et al., 2008).

Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for immune cells,
particularly rapidly dividing cells such as lymphocytes and macrophages (Nieman, 2017).
Adequate carbohydrate intake is crucial for maintaining optimal immune function and
preventing immune cell exhaustion. Carbohydrate intake, especially in the form of glucose, is
critical for the proper functioning of immune cells, and immune responses can be influenced
by carbohydrate availability (Barrett et al., 2002).

Micronutrients and Immunity

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that protects immune cells from oxidative
stress and enhances their function (Hemilä et al., 2017). It has been associated with reduced
severity and duration of respiratory tract infections, emphasizing its role in supporting
immune responses. Vitamin C is essential for several immune functions, such as the
production and function of various immune cells and the maintenance of the skin barrier
(Maggini et al., 2018).

Vitamin D: Vitamin D is essential for immune regulation and has been linked to a reduced
risk of infections (Martineau et al., 2017). It helps modulate immune cell function,
contributing to the body's ability to fend off pathogens. Vitamin D has immunomodulatory
effects and is involved in the regulation of both the innate and adaptive immune responses
(Adams & Hewison, 2008).

Vitamin A: Vitamin A is critical for maintaining mucosal immunity and the development of
T and B cells (Stephensen, 2001). Adequate vitamin A intake is necessary for preserving the
integrity of the body's first line of defense against infections. Vitamin A deficiency can
impair the function of mucosal immune cells, leading to an increased susceptibility to
infections (Semba, 1999).

Zinc: Zinc is involved in various immune processes, including the production of antibodies
and cytokines (Gammoh et al., 2018). Zinc deficiency can impair immune responses and
increase susceptibility to infections. Zinc is crucial for the development and function of
immune cells, and its deficiency can lead to impaired immune function and increased
vulnerability to infections (Prasad, 2008).

Nutritional Immunomodulation

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Certain nutrients possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help regulate the immune
response. Polyphenols found in fruits, vegetables, and green tea, for example, have been
shown to modulate inflammatory pathways (Biasi et al., 2015). A diet rich in these
compounds can contribute to a balanced immune response. Moreover, omega-3 fatty acids,
such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), have been found to
exert anti-inflammatory effects by influencing the production of inflammatory mediators
(Serhan et al., 2008).

Malnutrition and Immune Dysfunction

Malnutrition, whether due to insufficient intake or poor absorption of nutrients, compromises

immune function and increases susceptibility to infections. Severe acute malnutrition in
children, for instance, leads to impaired T cell function and diminished antibody responses
(Mangani et al., 2017). Similarly, undernutrition in older adults has been associated with
impaired immune responses, leading to an increased risk of infections (Gombart et al., 2020).

Malnutrition affects both innate and adaptive immune responses, leading to immune
suppression and impaired immune cell function (Chandra, 1997). Protein-energy malnutrition
(PEM) has been associated with alterations in immune cell numbers, reduced immune cell
function, and impaired antibody responses (Chandra, 1992). Micronutrient deficiencies, such
as those of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc, can also result in immune dysfunction
and increased susceptibility to infections (Prasad, 2008).

Immune Response to Specific Nutrients

Prebiotics and Probiotics

Prebiotics, such as inulin and oligosaccharides, provide fuel for beneficial gut bacteria,
promoting their growth and activity (Gibson et al., 2017). Probiotics, on the other hand,
introduce live beneficial bacteria into the gut, stimulating the immune system and enhancing
gut barrier function (Hill et al., 2014). Probiotics have been shown to enhance the innate and
adaptive immune responses, promoting the production of antimicrobial peptides and
increasing the activity of natural killer cells and phagocytes (Isolauri et al., 2001).

Antioxidants

Antioxidant-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables, provide essential nutrients that protect
immune cells from oxidative damage (González-Gallego et al., 2011). These antioxidants can
help maintain immune cell integrity and function, thus contributing to overall immunity. The
use of antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, can enhance immune responses and provide
protection against oxidative stress-induced immune dysfunction (Maggini et al., 2018).

Nutrition and Immune Responses to Specific Infections

Viral Infections

Certain nutrients have been found to have specific effects on the immune response to viral
infections. For example, vitamin C has been shown to reduce the severity and duration of the
common cold (Hemilä et al., 2017). Additionally, zinc has been found to have antiviral
properties and may aid in reducing the replication of certain viruses (Gammoh et al., 2018).

Vitamin D also plays a crucial role in the immune response to viral infections, as it can
enhance antiviral defense mechanisms (Gombart et al., 2020). Vitamin D regulates the
expression of genes involved in antiviral responses and promotes the production of
antimicrobial peptides that inhibit viral replication (Adams & Hewison, 2008).

Bacterial Infections

Nutrition also plays a role in the body's ability to fight bacterial infections. Adequate protein
intake is crucial for the production of antibodies and immune cells that target bacteria (Calder
et al., 2017). Moreover, vitamin A is essential for maintaining mucosal immunity, which acts
as a barrier against bacterial invaders (Stephensen, 2001).

Zinc also influences immune responses to bacterial infections, as it is essential for the
function of neutrophils, macrophages, and other immune cells that play a role in the defense
against bacterial pathogens (Gammoh et al., 2018). Furthermore, zinc deficiency can impair
the function of the innate immune system, leading to an increased susceptibility to bacterial
infections (Prasad, 2008).

Conclusion

The relationship between nutrition and immunity is complex and multifaceted. Adequate
intake of macronutrients, micronutrients, prebiotics, and probiotics is essential for
maintaining a robust immune system capable of effectively defending against infections.
Malnutrition can compromise immune function and increase vulnerability to infections.
Nutrition also plays a crucial role in modulating inflammatory responses and supporting the
gut-immune axis. By understanding the critical role of nutrition in infection and immunity,
we can develop targeted dietary interventions to optimize immune responses and promote
overall health.
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