23/03/2016
We just added several studies to the Nutrition Spotlight section of Ask the Scientist website, and we have a lot of information we will be adding over the next few weeks. The full article summary and link to the study abstract can be found at the link below.
MULTIVITAMINS AND HEALTHY IMMUNE FUNCTION
An article published in the British Journal of Nutrition summarizes the roles of selected vitamins and trace elements in immune function.
"Adequate intakes of micronutrients are required for the immune system to function efficiently. Micronutrient deficiency suppresses immunity by affecting antibody responses, leading to imbalances in the immune system. This situation increases susceptibility to infections, which increases disease and death risk."
"Micronutrients contribute to the body’s natural defenses on three levels by supporting physical barriers (skin/mucosa), cellular immunity and antibody production. Vitamins A, C, E and the mineral zinc assist in enhancing the skin barrier function. The vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D, E and folic acid and the minerals iron, zinc, copper and selenium work in synergy to support the protective activities of the immune cells."
https://askthescientists.info/multivitamins-healthy-immune-function/