What is a vitamin?
A vitamin is an organic substance essential for the functioning of a living organism, which cannot be synthesized in sufficient quantities by that organism. Vitamins are essential enzymatic cofactors.
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Older adults are more vulnerable to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, which can lead to age-related immune system weakening. Several studies suggest that taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement could help improve the immune function of individuals aged 55 and older.1
It can be observed, in this study,2 that nutrition plays an essential role in supporting the immune system. Vitamins play an important and complementary role in this support, taking into account several mechanistic and clinical data. There is a decrease in resistance to infections due to inadequate intake and status of these nutrients (notably vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D, E, and folate; trace elements such as zinc, iron, selenium, magnesium, and copper; and omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid), which results in an increased morbidity burden.
Highlighting this context, the study concluded as follows:
- A safe and cost-effective approach to boosting immune function is to add micronutrients and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Taking a supplement beyond the recommended nutritional intake, but within the upper safety limits, is justified for certain nutrients such as vitamins C and D.
In another study, it is mentioned that the immune system requires several specific micronutrients, including vitamins A, D, C, E, B6, and B12, folate, zinc, iron, copper, and selenium, which play vital roles, often synergistic at each stage of the immune response. However, the daily intake of micronutrients necessary for its functioning may be higher than the currently recommended dietary allowances. The micronutrients with the strongest evidence of immune support are vitamins C and D and zinc.3
References :
1. Fantacone ML, Lowry MB, Uesugi SL, Michels AJ, Choi J, Leonard SW, Gombart SK, Gombart JS, Bobe G, Gombart AF. The Effect of a Multivitamin and Mineral Supplement on Immune Function in Healthy Older Adults: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2020 Aug 14;12(8):2447. doi: 10.3390/nu12082447. PMID: 32823974; PMCID: PMC7468989.
2. Calder PC, Carr AC, Gombart AF, Eggersdorfer M. Optimal Nutritional Status for a Well-Functioning Immune System Is an Important Factor to Protect against Viral Infections. Nutrients. 2020 Apr 23;12(4):1181. doi: 10.3390/nu12041181. PMID: 32340216; PMCID: PMC7230749.
3. Gombart, A.F.; Pierre, A.; Maggini, S. A Review of Micronutrients and the Immune System–Working in Harmony to Reduce the Risk of Infection. Nutrients 2020, 12, 236. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12010236
Warning: Maison Jacynthe disclaims all responsibilities. The information contained in this article does not seek to replace a justified allopathic treatment nor to dismiss the expertise of the medical profession. It is up to each individual to take charge of their health, to inform themselves, and to make the necessary changes to improve their condition. Therapeutic supervision by a qualified healthcare professional is strongly recommended.
