Cited by 710Nutrition and Health StudiesTrace Elements in HealthNutrition and Health in Aging

Immune function and micronutrient requirements change over the life course

Open access
Maggini, Silvia, Pierre, Adeline, Calder, Philip C.·2018·Nutrients

Abstract

As humans age, the risk and severity of infections vary in line with immune competence according to how the immune system develops, matures, and declines. Several factors influence the immune system and its competence, including nutrition. A bidirectional relationship among nutrition, infection and immunity exists: changes in one component affect the others. For example, distinct immune features present during each life stage may affect the type, prevalence, and severity of infections, while poor nutrition can compromise immune function and increase infection risk. Various micronutrients are essential for immunocompetence, particularly vitamins A, C, D, E, B2, B6, and B12, folic acid, iron, selenium, and zinc. Micronutrient deficiencies are a recognized global public health issue, and poor nutritional status predisposes to certain infections. Immune function may be improved by restoring deficient micronutrients to recommended levels, thereby increasing resistance to infection and supporting faster recovery when infected. Diet alone may be insufficient and tailored micronutrient supplementation based on specific age-related needs necessary. This review looks at immune considerations specific to each life stage, the consequent risk of infection, micronutrient requirements and deficiencies exhibited over the life course, and the available evidence regarding the effects of micronutrient supplementation on immune function and infection.

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Written from the paper’s full text.

TL;DR

This narrative review describes how immune competence and infection risk change across infancy, childhood, adolescence/adulthood, and older age, and argues that micronutrient needs and deficiencies vary by life stage. It concludes that tailored micronutrient supplementation may restore immune function and reduce infection risk/severity, but more research on immune and clinical outcomes is needed.

Key findings

  • Immune function follows a life-course pattern: immature in infants/children, mature in adolescence/young adulthood, and declining in older age (immunosenescence), with infection risk and severity varying accordingly. Children under 1 year average six colds per year, falling to about three per year at 10–14 years; older adults are 2–10 times more likely to die of infection than younger people, and 1.27 million deaths in people aged ≥70 were attributed to lower respiratory tract infections in 2015.
  • Micronutrient deficiencies are common and age-patterned: an estimated 35% of people aged ≥50 in Europe, USA, and Canada have a demonstrable deficiency of one or more micronutrients; worldwide, iron, vitamin A, and iodine are the most common deficiencies, with zinc also common. European intake data show insufficient intakes of vitamin D (all ages), vitamin A (females 10+ years), vitamin E, folate, zinc (10+ years), iron (all ages), and selenium (all ages), while vitamins C, B6, B12, and copper were sufficient in the 4–14-year range.
  • Supplementation evidence includes: zinc reduces morbidity and mortality from infectious diseases in infants/children in developing countries and can reduce pneumonia risk/duration, manage infantile diarrhea, lead to fewer malaria episodes, and shorten diarrhea; vitamin C shortens common cold duration/severity in children and adults; vitamin D protects against respiratory tract infections; in older people, multiple micronutrient supplementation may reduce antibiotic use and improve post-vaccination responses, and vitamin E improves NK cytotoxic activity, neutrophil chemotaxis, phagocytosis, lymphocyte proliferation, and IL-2 production.
  • In older age, skin vitamin D synthesis is about 75% slower in people aged 65 years than in younger adults; marginal zinc deficiency is common, and zinc supplementation can restore thymulin activity, increase cytotoxic T cells, reduce activated Th cells, and increase NK cytotoxicity.

Methods

  • Design: narrative review of life-stage-specific immunity, infection risk, micronutrient requirements/deficiencies, and effects of micronutrient supplementation, from the perspective of industrialized countries where possible.
  • Data/sample: no primary sample; synthesizes published literature and tables, including European Nutrition and Health Report intake data compared with recommended dietary allowances (Table 2) and cited supplementation studies.
  • Analysis: narrative synthesis by life stage (infants/children, adolescents/adults, older people); no systematic search, data extraction, or meta-analysis is described.

Limitations

  • Stated: much more research is required into the effects of micronutrient supplementation on immune functions and clinical outcomes; no single biomarker accurately reflects supplementation effects on the immune response, so clinical outcomes are used instead.
  • Stated: few data exist on micronutrient levels in infants from high-income countries; the full extent of sex on functional immune responses remains unclear; and genetic/environmental factors in healthy ageing “have yet to be described.”
  • Evident: as a narrative review, it lacks a described systematic search strategy, formal study quality/risk-of-bias assessment, or quantitative pooling; conclusions rely on heterogeneous cited studies and may be subject to selection bias.

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Integrity signals

Registry

Crossref · 10.3390/nu10101531

Cites

116 of 116 references verified0 citation errors · 0 not checkable

Statistics

Nothing to recompute.

Claims the paper makes

0 of 203 cited sources checked · 0 supported · 0 flagged

  • Findingreasoning

    Only the intakes of vitamins C, B6 and B12 and copper were sufficient within this age range.

    “Only the intakes of vitamins C, B6 and B12 and copper were sufficient within this age range.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Findingnone given

    In adults, there were insufficient dietary intakes for all micronutrients shown, apart from vitamin B6 and copper.

    “In adults, there were insufficient dietary intakes for all micronutrients shown, apart from vitamin B6 and copper.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Findingown data

    Some children between the ages of 4 and 14 years had a surfeit of many micronutrients included in the table.

    “It can be seen from the upper values that some children between the ages of 4 and 14 years had a surfeit of many micronutrients included in the table.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Findingreasoning

    Only the intakes of vitamins B6 and B12 and copper were sufficient in all cases.

    “Only the intakes of vitamins B6 and B12 and copper were sufficient in all cases.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Findingcitation

    Data from Europe suggest that there is an insufficient intake of most micronutrients in older people, apart from vitamin B12, iron and copper.

    “Overall, data from Europe [96] (Table 2) suggest that there is an insufficient intake of most micronutrients in older people, apart from vitamin B12, iron and copper [96].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [96] Elmadfa, 2009, European Nutrition and Health Report, Forum Nutr. source

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  • May combine two claims. 86
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 13
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    Findingcitation

    Intakes were low for vitamin D (females), vitamin E (males and females) and folate (males and females).

    “In particular, intakes were low for vitamin D (females), vitamin E (males and females) and folate (males and females).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    Some adolescents had an insufficient intake of vitamin C (males 15-18 years), vitamin D, vitamin A (males 15-18 years; females 10-18 years), vitamin E, folate, zinc (10-18 years), iron and selenium.

    “The lower ranges indicate that some adolescents had an insufficient intake of vitamin C (males 15–18 years), vitamin D, vitamin A (males 15–18 years; females 10–18 years), vitamin E, folate, zinc (10–18 years), iron and selenium.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    There were children who had an insufficient intake of vitamin D (all ages), vitamin A (females 10+ years), vitamin E, folate, zinc (10+ years), iron (all ages) and selenium (all ages).

    “However, the lower ranges indicate that there were children who had an insufficient intake of vitamin D (all ages), vitamin A (females 10+ years), vitamin E, folate, zinc (10+ years), iron (all ages) and selenium (all ages).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    The reported micronutrient intake data in Table 2 suggest that over-supplementation is unlikely with most micronutrients, perhaps with the exception of vitamin A in children.

    “Although this is theoretically possible, the reported micronutrient intake data in Table 2 suggest that over-supplementation is unlikely with most micronutrients, perhaps with the exception of vitamin A in children.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Micronutrient requirements and deficiencies vary over the life course, with certain micronutrients more likely to be insufficient at different stages.

    “certain micronutrients may be more likely to be insufficient at different stages of the life course.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Poor nutrition compromises immune function and increases infection risk.

    “while poor nutrition can compromise immune function and increase infection risk.”
    • Also stated in: § 1. Introduction · plain
      “the immune response is compromised when nutrition is poor, predisposing individuals to infections”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [5] Calder, 2013, Conference on ‘Transforming the nutrition landscape in Africa’. Plenary Session 1: Feeding the immune system, Proc. Nutr. Soc. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Micronutrient deficiencies and suboptimal intakes are common worldwide.

    “Micronutrient deficiencies are a recognized global public health issue”
    • Also stated in: § 1. Introduction · plain
      “It is recognized that micronutrient deficiencies and suboptimal intakes are common worldwide [7]”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [7] Ottaway, P.B. (2008). 3—Vitamin and mineral fortification of foods. Food Fortification and Supplementation, Woodhead Publishing. source

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    Premisecitation

    Even in industrialized nations, social, economic, educational, ethnic and cultural backgrounds influence diet and may adversely affect an individual's micronutrient status.

    “Even in industrialized nations, where it may be presumed that healthy, nutritious food is easier to obtain, social, economic, educational, ethnic and cultural backgrounds influence the diet and may adversely affect an individual’s micronutrient status [8].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [8] Schaefer, 2016, Micronutrient deficiency in women living in industrialized countries during the reproductive years: Is there a basis for supplementation with multiple micronutrients?, J. Nutr. Disord. Ther. source

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    Premisecitation

    The neonatal innate immune system comprises different protective cell populations compared with adults, as well as qualitative differences in the responses by shared cell populations.

    “The neonatal innate immune system comprises different protective cell populations compared with adults, as well as qualitative differences in the responses by shared cell populations [23].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [23] Brodin, 2017, Human immune system variation, Nat. Rev. Immunol. source

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    Premisecitation

    Prior to birth, babies lack significant antigenic exposure, have not acquired immunological memory, and their adaptive immunity is not fully developed.

    “Prior to birth, babies lack significant antigenic exposure and so have not yet acquired immunological memory and their adaptive immunity is not fully developed [5,10,11,19].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 4 sources checked
    • cites [5] Calder, 2013, Conference on ‘Transforming the nutrition landscape in Africa’. Plenary Session 1: Feeding the immune system, Proc. Nutr. Soc. source

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    • cites [10] Haryanto, 2015, Multivitamin supplementation supports immune function and ameliorates conditions triggered by reduced air quality, Vitam. Miner.

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    • cites [11] Maggini, 2008, Feeding the immune system: The role of micronutrients in restoring resistance to infections, CAB Rev.

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    • cites [19] Simon, 2015, Evolution of the immune system in humans from infancy to old age, Proc. R. Soc. B source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationcitation

    Immune function changes over the life course, developing in infants and children, potentially optimal in adolescents and young adults, and declining in older people.

    “As humans age, the immune system evolves from the immature and developing immune responses in infants and children, through to immune function that is potentially optimal in adolescents and young adults, followed by a gradual decline in immunity (particularly adaptive processes) in older people [1].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [1] Soveral, 2014, The immune system and aging: A review, Gynecol. Endocrinol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationcitation

    Restoring deficient micronutrients to recommended levels may improve immune function, thereby increasing resistance to infection and supporting faster recovery when infected.

    “Immune function may be improved by restoring deficient micronutrients to recommended levels, thereby increasing resistance to infection and supporting faster recovery when infected.”
    • Also stated in: § 1. Introduction · hedged
      “Resistance to infection may be enhanced by adding the deficient nutrient back into the diet and restoring immune function [4].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [4] Alpert, 2017, The role of vitamins and minerals on the immune system, Home Health Care Manag. Pract. source

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    Premisecitation

    Adult levels of IgG are reached by the age of 11-12 years, with a further increase during puberty.

    “adult levels of IgG (expressed on the surface of mature B cells, and the most prevalent immunoglobulin in serum) are reached by the age of 11–12 years, with a further increase during puberty”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [29] Berg, 1969, Immunoglobulin levels during childhood, with special regard to IgE, Acta Paediatr. source

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    Premisecitation

    Females generate higher proinflammatory cytokine and chemokine responses to the influenza virus and experience greater morbidity and mortality than males.

    “females generating higher proinflammatory cytokine and chemokine responses to the influenza virus and experiencing greater morbidity and mortality than males [31].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [31] Klein, 2012, Mechanisms of sex disparities in influenza pathogenesis, J. Leukoc. Biol. source

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    Premisecitation

    With increasing age, there is a loss of lymphoid tissue, particularly in the thymus, and the ability to respond to pathogens, antigens and mitogens decreases.

    “There is a loss of lymphoid tissue, particularly in the thymus, with increasing age [25], and the ability to respond to pathogens, antigens and mitogens decreases [5,33].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [25] Valiathan, 2016, Effects of ageing on the immune system: Infants to elderly, Scand. J. Immunol. source

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    • cites [5] Calder, 2013, Conference on ‘Transforming the nutrition landscape in Africa’. Plenary Session 1: Feeding the immune system, Proc. Nutr. Soc. source

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    • cites [33] Chandra, 2002, Nutrition and the immune system from birth to old age, Eur. J. Clin. Nutr. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Children less than one year old experience an average of six colds per year; the frequency decreases with age to about three colds per year in older children (10-14 years).

    “children less than one year old have been noted to experience an average of six colds per year; the frequency decreases with age to about three colds per year in older children (10–14 years) [45].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [45] Monto, 1974, Acute respiratory illness in an American community: The Tecumseh study, JAMA source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The development of long-term immune memory is impaired with age, with a diminished response to vaccination.

    “The development of long-term immune memory is also impaired, with a diminished response to vaccination [5].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [5] Calder, 2013, Conference on ‘Transforming the nutrition landscape in Africa’. Plenary Session 1: Feeding the immune system, Proc. Nutr. Soc. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Women initiate a higher humoral immune response to the influenza vaccine and experience more adverse reactions than men.

    “Women also initiate a higher humoral immune response to the influenza vaccine, and experience more adverse reactions than men [31].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [31] Klein, 2012, Mechanisms of sex disparities in influenza pathogenesis, J. Leukoc. Biol. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    The immune system reaches maturity by adulthood, and small decreases or increases in single selected markers of immune function may not be clinically important after that.

    “It should be noted that the immune system reaches maturity by adulthood, and small decreases or increases in single selected markers of immune function may not be clinically important after that.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Some older people age without any major health problems (healthy ageing), and immune system dysfunction appears to be mitigated in this population.

    “Some older people age without any major health problems, known as healthy ageing, and immune system dysfunction appears to be mitigated in this population [1].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [1] Soveral, 2014, The immune system and aging: A review, Gynecol. Endocrinol. source

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    Premisecitation

    Microbial antigens are essential for the education of the immune system and development of Th-1 type responses, and breakdown in such immune education may predispose to allergic, inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

    “Microbial antigens are essential for the education of the immune system and development of Th-1 type responses and breakdown in such immune education may predispose to allergic, inflammatory and autoimmune diseases [5,10].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [5] Calder, 2013, Conference on ‘Transforming the nutrition landscape in Africa’. Plenary Session 1: Feeding the immune system, Proc. Nutr. Soc. source

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    • cites [10] Haryanto, 2015, Multivitamin supplementation supports immune function and ameliorates conditions triggered by reduced air quality, Vitam. Miner.

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  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Many children in industrialized countries experience more than one episode of infective gastroenteritis per year, usually caused by rotavirus.

    “many children in industrialized countries experiencing more than one episode of infective gastroenteritis per year, usually caused by rotavirus [47].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [47] (2018, April 28). National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Diarrhoea and Vomiting Caused by Gastroenteritis in under 5s: Diagnosis and Management. Available online: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg84.

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    Premisecitation

    Immunosenescence mostly affects adaptive immunity but also the innate immune system to a lesser extent.

    “This is commonly referred to as immunosenescence, which mostly seems to affect adaptive immunity but also the innate immune system to a lesser extent [32].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [32] Robert, 2014, On the immunological theory of aging, Aging: Facts and Theories source

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    Premisecitation

    Older people are more likely to suffer prolonged infections, severe symptoms and secondary complications.

    “Furthermore, this age group is more likely to suffer prolonged infections, severe symptoms and secondary complications [33].”
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    • cites [33] Chandra, 2002, Nutrition and the immune system from birth to old age, Eur. J. Clin. Nutr. source

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    Premisecitation

    In contrast to children, sickness and diarrhea in adults are often caused by norovirus and campylobacter.

    “In contrast to children, sickness and diarrhea in adults are often caused by norovirus [62] and campylobacter [63].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [62] Marshall, 2011, The dynamics of norovirus outbreak epidemics: Recent insights, Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health source

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    • cites [63] Man, 2011, The clinical importance of emerging Campylobacter species, Nat. Rev. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. source

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    Premisecitation

    Micronutrients have essential roles in the immune system and an inadequate intake may have deleterious effects.

    “As outlined in Table 1, micronutrients have essential roles in the immune system and an inadequate intake may have deleterious effects [4].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [4] Alpert, 2017, The role of vitamins and minerals on the immune system, Home Health Care Manag. Pract. source

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    Premisecitation

    Prolonged bouts of exercise and heavy training regimens in adults may create an imbalance between ROS and antioxidant defenses, leading to oxidative stress that alters signal transmission in the immune system and impairs the immune response.

    “Nevertheless, prolonged bouts of exercise and heavy training regimens in adults may create an imbalance between ROS and antioxidant defenses [54], leading to oxidative stress that alters signal transmission in the immune system and impairs the immune response [10].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [54] Nieman, 2008, Immunonutrition support for athletes, Nutr. Rev. source

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    • cites [10] Haryanto, 2015, Multivitamin supplementation supports immune function and ameliorates conditions triggered by reduced air quality, Vitam. Miner.

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    Premisecitation

    A poor diet may be combined with a sedentary lifestyle, leading to obesity, suboptimal immune response, and increased risk of infection.

    “A poor diet may be combined with a sedentary lifestyle, leading to obesity, suboptimal immune response, and increased risk of infection [51].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [51] Milner, 2012, Micronutrients, immunology and inflammation. The impact of obesity on the immune response to infection, Proc. Nutr. Soc. source

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    Premisecitation

    Reactive oxygen species in, and caused by, pollution can also upset the oxidant-antioxidant balance within the body and cause oxidative stress, which must be counteracted by an adequate supply of antioxidants.

    “Reactive oxygen species in, and caused by, pollution can also upset the oxidant–antioxidant balance within the body and cause oxidative stress, which must be counteracted by an adequate supply of antioxidants [10].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [10] Haryanto, 2015, Multivitamin supplementation supports immune function and ameliorates conditions triggered by reduced air quality, Vitam. Miner.

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    Premisecitation

    Thymic involution and the relative paucity of naïve lymphocytes in older people means that they are less able to mount an adequate defense against neoantigens and thus exposure to them is more hazardous than in younger people.

    “In addition, thymic involution and the relative paucity of naïve lymphocytes in older people means that they are less able to mount an adequate defense against neoantigens and thus exposure to them is more hazardous than in younger people [36].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [36] Pawelec, 2017, Does the human immune system ever really become “senescent”?, F1000Research source

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  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    Nutritional status can be compromised by a poor diet, which is often observed in adults with a hectic and stressful lifestyle and ready access to fast food or energy-dense, micronutrient-poor convenience food.

    “In particular, nutritional status can be compromised by a poor diet, which is often observed in adults with a hectic and stressful lifestyle and ready access to fast food or energy-dense, micronutrient-poor convenience food.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Several lifestyle-related factors affect immune competence in healthy adults and increase their risk of infection.

    “Nevertheless, several lifestyle-related factors affect immune competence in healthy adults and increase their risk of infection (Figure 2).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Immunological maturity is achieved by adolescence, and young adults should be well fortified against attack by pathogens.

    “Immunological maturity is achieved by adolescence, and young adults should be well fortified against attack by pathogens [19].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [19] Simon, 2015, Evolution of the immune system in humans from infancy to old age, Proc. R. Soc. B source

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    Premisecitation

    Excessive consumption of alcohol can suppress many aspects of immune function and consequently increase the risk of infection.

    “Alcohol consumption has variable effects on immunity; moderate amounts of polyphenol-rich alcoholic beverages potentially provide some immune protection while excessive consumption of alcohol can suppress many aspects of immune function and consequently increase the risk of infection [57].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [57] Romeo, 2007, Moderate alcohol consumption and the immune system: A review, Br. J. Nutr. source

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  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Lower respiratory tract infections are more common in children under five years old than any other age group worldwide, with risk factors including air pollution and suboptimal breastfeeding.

    “Lower respiratory tract infections (e.g., bronchitis and pneumonia) are more common in children under five years old than any other age group worldwide, and risk factors include air pollution and suboptimal breastfeeding [48].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [48] GBD 2015 LRI Collaborators (2017). Estimates of the global, regional, and national morbidity, mortality, and aetiologies of lower respiratory tract infections in 195 countries: A systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2015. Lancet Infect. Dis., 17, 1133–1161.

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Micronutrient deficiencies cause specific immune impairments that affect both the innate and adaptive immune systems, such as impaired phagocyte and lymphocyte activity with zinc deficiency, or compromised development of neutrophils, macrophages and NK cells with vitamin A deficiency.

    “micronutrient deficiencies cause specific immune impairments that affect both the innate and adaptive immune systems, such as impaired phagocyte and lymphocyte activity with zinc deficiency, or compromised development of neutrophils, macrophages and NK cells with vitamin A deficiency [50].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [50] Bresnahan, 2014, Undernutrition, the acute phase response to infection, and its effects on micronutrient status indicators, Adv. Nutr. source

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    Premisecitation

    The incidence of common cold is lowest in adolescents compared with all other age groups, but increases in adults aged 20-30 years.

    “The incidence of common cold is lowest in adolescents compared with all other age groups, but increases in adults aged 20–30 years [45]; the risk is likely to be greater in those who come into close contact with children, who are at highest risk.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [45] Monto, 1974, Acute respiratory illness in an American community: The Tecumseh study, JAMA source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    These factors, alone or in combination, weaken the immune system in adults and can increase the risk of infection.

    “These factors, alone or in combination, weaken the immune system in adults and can increase the risk of infection.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Sleep is an important homeostatic regulator of immune function and plays a specific role in immunological memory.

    “Sleep is an important homeostatic regulator of immune function and plays a specific role in immunological memory [58].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [58] Besedovsky, 2012, Sleep and immune function, Eur. J. Physiol. source

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    Premisecitation

    Breastmilk contains various immunological components such as antibodies (e.g., antigen-specific IgA), anti-inflammatory cytokines and other antimicrobial factors, but also most of the micronutrients necessary to support neonatal development, including of the immune system.

    “Breastmilk contains various immunological components such as antibodies (e.g., antigen-specific IgA), anti-inflammatory cytokines and other antimicrobial factors, but also most of the micronutrients necessary to support neonatal development, including of the immune system [49,71].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [49] Calder, P., Prescott, S., and Caplan, M. (2007). Scientific Review: The Role of Nutrients in Immune Function of Infants and Young Children, Mead Johnson & Company. Emerging Evidence for Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids.

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    • cites [71] Prentice, 2017, They are what you eat: Can nutritional factors during gestation and early infancy modulate the neonatal immune response?, Front. Immunol. source

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    Premisecitation

    In industrialized countries, influenza-associated deaths occur most often among people aged 65 years or older.

    “Although influenza is not a life-threatening illness in most adults [67], in industrialized countries, influenza-associated deaths occur most often among people aged 65 years or older [46].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [46] World Health Organization (2018, April 28). Influenza (Seasonal). Available online: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs211/en/.

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    Premisecitation

    Micronutrient deficiencies are prevalent in infants and preschool children in developing and low- to middle-income countries, and this age group is at the highest risk of multiple micronutrient deficiencies.

    “Nevertheless, micronutrient deficiencies are prevalent in infants and preschool children in developing and low- to middle-income countries (e.g., [17,79,80,81,82]), and this age group is at the highest risk of multiple micronutrient deficiencies [83].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 6 sources checked
    • cites [17] World Health Organization, and Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (2006). Part 2. Evaluating the public health significance of micronutrient malnutrition. Guidelines on Food Fortification with Micronutrients, World Health Organization.

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    • cites [79] Marasinghe, 2015, Micronutrient status and its relationship with nutritional status in preschool children in urban Sri Lanka, Asia Pac. J. Clin. Nutr.

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [80] Luo, 2015, Micronutrient deficiencies and developmental delays among infants: Evidence from a cross-sectional survey in rural China, BMJ Open source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [81] Özden, T.A., Gökçay, G., Cantez, M.S., Durmaz, Ö., İşsever, H., Ömer, B., and Saner, G. (2015). Copper, zinc and iron levels in infants and their mothers during the first year of life: A prospective study. BMC Pediatr., 15. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [82] 2016, Micronutrient deficiencies in normal and overweight infants in a low socio-economic population in north-east Brazil, Paediatr. Int. Child Health source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [83] Bailey, 2015, The epidemiology of global micronutrient deficiencies, Ann. Nutr. Metab. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Human milk is a poor source of iron and zinc and the needs of the child cannot be met by breast milk alone for zinc, or beyond six months for iron.

    “However, human milk is a poor source of iron and zinc and the needs of the child cannot be met by breast milk alone for zinc, or beyond six months for iron [72].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [72] Butte, N., Lopez-Alarcon, M., and Garza, C. (2017, December 12). Nutrient Adequacy of Exclusive Breastfeeding for the Term Infant during the First Six Months of Life. Available online: http://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/42519.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The concentrations of certain micronutrients in breastmilk (e.g., calcium, magnesium, and copper) are regulated by maternal homeostatic mechanisms (i.e., independent of maternal nutritional status and diet) to ensure they are sufficient to meet infant needs and to protect them against deficiency or excess.

    “The concentrations of certain micronutrients in breastmilk (e.g., calcium, magnesium, and copper) are regulated by maternal homeostatic mechanisms (i.e., independent of maternal nutritional status and diet) to ensure they are sufficient to meet infant needs [72] and to protect them against deficiency or excess [71,73,74,75].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 5 sources checked
    • cites [72] Butte, N., Lopez-Alarcon, M., and Garza, C. (2017, December 12). Nutrient Adequacy of Exclusive Breastfeeding for the Term Infant during the First Six Months of Life. Available online: http://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/42519.

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [71] Prentice, 2017, They are what you eat: Can nutritional factors during gestation and early infancy modulate the neonatal immune response?, Front. Immunol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [73] Vahter, 2012, Metals and trace element concentrations in breast milk of first time healthy mothers: A biological monitoring study, Environ. Health

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [74] Lowe, 2010, Nutritional requirements during lactation. Towards European alignment of reference values: The EURRECA network, Matern. Child Health

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [75] Kominiarek, 2016, Nutrition recommendations in pregnancy and lactation, Med. Clin. N. Am. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Children do not need micronutrients in the same intakes as adults, and lower amounts are adequate to fulfill their various roles throughout the body, including within the immune system.

    “Children do not need micronutrients in the same intakes as adults [78] (Table 2), and lower amounts are adequate to fulfill their various roles throughout the body, including within the immune system.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [78] Institute of Medicine (2011). Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D, The National Academies Press.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In babies and infants, breast milk is the major nutritional influence and is formulated to ensure that nutritional needs are met.

    “In babies and infants, breast milk is the major nutritional influence and is formulated to ensure that nutritional needs are met [49,71].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [49] Calder, P., Prescott, S., and Caplan, M. (2007). Scientific Review: The Role of Nutrients in Immune Function of Infants and Young Children, Mead Johnson & Company. Emerging Evidence for Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids.

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [71] Prentice, 2017, They are what you eat: Can nutritional factors during gestation and early infancy modulate the neonatal immune response?, Front. Immunol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The excretion of fat- and water-soluble micronutrients (e.g., vitamin A, and vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, and C, respectively) into breast milk is dependent on maternal intake and varies worldwide.

    “In contrast, the excretion of fat- and water-soluble micronutrients (e.g., vitamin A, and vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, and C, respectively) into breast milk is dependent on maternal intake and varies worldwide [71,74,75].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [71] Prentice, 2017, They are what you eat: Can nutritional factors during gestation and early infancy modulate the neonatal immune response?, Front. Immunol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [74] Lowe, 2010, Nutritional requirements during lactation. Towards European alignment of reference values: The EURRECA network, Matern. Child Health

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [75] Kominiarek, 2016, Nutrition recommendations in pregnancy and lactation, Med. Clin. N. Am. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Vitamins A (and beta carotene), C, D, B2, and B12, folic acid, iron, zinc and selenium are just some micronutrients that have immunomodulatory and/or antioxidant effects and thus influence the susceptibility of a host to infectious diseases, as well as the course and outcome of infection.

    “Vitamins A (and beta carotene), C, D, B2, and B12, folic acid, iron, zinc and selenium are just some micronutrients that have immunomodulatory and/or antioxidant effects and thus influence the susceptibility of a host to infectious diseases, as well as the course and outcome of infection [70].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [70] Bhaskaram, 2002, Micronutrient malnutrition, infection, and immunity: An overview, Nutr. Rev. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Immune defenses can be impaired by undernutrition, which increases susceptibility to infection.

    “Immune defenses can be impaired by undernutrition, which increases susceptibility to infection [4,5,70].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [4] Alpert, 2017, The role of vitamins and minerals on the immune system, Home Health Care Manag. Pract. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [5] Calder, 2013, Conference on ‘Transforming the nutrition landscape in Africa’. Plenary Session 1: Feeding the immune system, Proc. Nutr. Soc. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [70] Bhaskaram, 2002, Micronutrient malnutrition, infection, and immunity: An overview, Nutr. Rev. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Although the recommended dietary allowances for older people indicate that their energy needs are lower than their younger counterparts, micronutrient requirements are mostly the same.

    “Although the recommended dietary allowances for older people indicate that their energy needs are lower than their younger counterparts, micronutrient requirements are mostly the same [78] (Table 2).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [78] Institute of Medicine (2011). Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D, The National Academies Press.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Many older people have chronic health conditions requiring hospitalization, live in care homes, or tend to eat less and make different food choices (e.g., choosing low nutrient density, often cheaper, and foods).

    “Many older people have chronic health conditions requiring hospitalization, live in care homes, or tend to eat less and make different food choices (e.g., choosing low nutrient density, often cheaper, and foods) [99,100].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [99] Montgomery, 2014, Micronutrient needs of the elderly, Nutr. Clin. Pract. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [100] Drenowski, 2001, Impact of aging on eating behaviors, food choices, nutrition, and health status, J. Nutr. Health Aging

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    An adequate supply of micronutrients that affect the thymus is also important; for example, even marginal zinc deficiency is known to result in thymic atrophy and can increase the risk of infection.

    “An adequate supply of micronutrients that affect the thymus is also important; for example, even marginal zinc deficiency is known to result in thymic atrophy and can increase the risk of infection [97].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [97] Savino, 2010, Nutritional imbalances and infections affect the thymus: Consequences on T-cell-mediated immune responses, Proc. Nutr. Soc. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    A low vitamin C status also increases susceptibility to infections such as pneumonia, possibly because low levels of antioxidants such as vitamin C are unable to counteract the oxidative stress observed in pneumonia.

    “A low vitamin C status also increases susceptibility to infections such as pneumonia [71], possibly because low levels of antioxidants such as vitamin C are unable to counteract the oxidative stress observed in pneumonia [104].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [71] Prentice, 2017, They are what you eat: Can nutritional factors during gestation and early infancy modulate the neonatal immune response?, Front. Immunol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [104] Hemilä, H. (2017). Vitamin C and infections. Nutrients, 9. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Premisecitation

    It is especially important to ensure that antioxidant levels (e.g., vitamins C, E, and A) and micronutrients that are components of antioxidant enzymes (e.g., zinc, copper, iron, and selenium) are sufficient to combat the oxidative stress that is induced by many lifestyle factors common in this group, and which has great impact on immune function.

    “It is especially important to ensure that antioxidant levels (e.g., vitamins C, E, and A) and micronutrients that are components of antioxidant enzymes (e.g., zinc, copper, iron, and selenium) are sufficient to combat the oxidative stress that is induced by many lifestyle factors common in this group, and which has great impact on immune function [10,23,35,36,44].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 5 sources checked
    • cites [10] Haryanto, 2015, Multivitamin supplementation supports immune function and ameliorates conditions triggered by reduced air quality, Vitam. Miner.

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [23] Brodin, 2017, Human immune system variation, Nat. Rev. Immunol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [35] Ventura, 2017, Immunosenescence in aging: Between immune cells depletion and cytokines up-regulation, Clin. Mol. Allergy source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [36] Pawelec, 2017, Does the human immune system ever really become “senescent”?, F1000Research source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [44] Fulop, 2017, Immunosenescence and inflamm-aging as two sides of the same coin: Friends or foes?, Front. Immunol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Zinc deficiency can increase thymic atrophy, decrease lymphocyte number and activity, and increase oxidative stress and inflammation by altering cytokine production.

    “For example, zinc deficiency can increase thymic atrophy, decrease lymphocyte number and activity, and increase oxidative stress and inflammation by altering cytokine production [14,97].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [14] Micronutrient Information Center (2018, April 17). Immunity in Depth. Available online: http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/immunity.

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [97] Savino, 2010, Nutritional imbalances and infections affect the thymus: Consequences on T-cell-mediated immune responses, Proc. Nutr. Soc. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    An adequate amount of all micronutrients is required for optimal immune function in adolescents and adults (and throughout life), but in higher amounts compared with infants and children.

    “An adequate amount of all micronutrients is required for optimal immune function in adolescents and adults (and throughout life), but in higher amounts compared with infants and children [78] (Table 2).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [78] Institute of Medicine (2011). Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D, The National Academies Press.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Menopause affects utilization of micronutrients; for example, vitamin C gradually decreases as menopause advances, correlated negatively to body mass index.

    “Furthermore, menopause affects utilization of micronutrients; for example, vitamin C gradually decreases as menopause advances, correlated negatively to body mass index [102].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [102] Wiacek, 2013, Menopause and age-driven changes in blood level of fat- and water-soluble vitamins, Climacteric source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The skin of older adults is less able to synthesize vitamin D, and synthesis is about 75% slower in people aged 65 years than in younger adults.

    “The skin of older adults is less able to synthesize vitamin D, and synthesis is about 75% slower in people aged 65 years than in younger adults [17].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [17] World Health Organization, and Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (2006). Part 2. Evaluating the public health significance of micronutrient malnutrition. Guidelines on Food Fortification with Micronutrients, World Health Organization.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Worldwide, the three most common deficiencies are for iron, vitamin A and iodine, but zinc deficiencies are also common.

    “Worldwide, the three most common deficiencies are for iron, vitamin A and iodine [84], but zinc deficiencies are also common [83].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [84] Allen, L., de Benoist, B., Dary, O., and Hurrell, R. (2006). Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations. Part I. The role of food fortification in the control of micronutrient malnutrition. Guidelines on Food Fortification with Micronutrients, World Health Organization.

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [83] Bailey, 2015, The epidemiology of global micronutrient deficiencies, Ann. Nutr. Metab. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Micronutrient deficiencies are common in older people; it has been estimated that 35% of those aged 50 years or older in Europe, USA and Canada have a demonstrable deficiency of one or more micronutrients.

    “However, micronutrient deficiencies are common in older people; it has been estimated that 35% of those aged 50 years or older in Europe, USA and Canada have a demonstrable deficiency of one or more micronutrients [33].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [33] Chandra, 2002, Nutrition and the immune system from birth to old age, Eur. J. Clin. Nutr. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The available data suggest that, even in industrialized countries, some infants who are breastfed may not be receiving optimal amounts of certain micronutrients, as the levels found in breastmilk, maternal serum or urine did not always reach recommended levels in all women.

    “The available data suggest that, even in industrialized countries, some infants who are breastfed may not be receiving optimal amounts of certain micronutrients, as the levels found in breastmilk, maternal serum or urine did not always reach recommended levels in all women [73,85,86,87,88,89,90,91,92,93,94,95].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 10 sources checked
    • cites [73] Vahter, 2012, Metals and trace element concentrations in breast milk of first time healthy mothers: A biological monitoring study, Environ. Health

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [85] Mackey, 1999, Maternal folate status during extended lactation and the effect of supplemental folic acid, Am. J. Clin. Nutr. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [86] Houghton, 2007, How well do blood folate concentrations predict dietary folate intakes in a sample of Canadian lactating women exposed to high levels of folate? An observational study, BMC Pregnancy Childbirth source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [87] Gellert, 2017, Breastfeeding woman are at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency than nonbreastfeeding women - insights from the German VitaMinFemin study, Int. Breastfeed. J.

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [88] Milman, 2012, Vitamin D status during normal pregnancy and postpartum. A longitudinal study in 141 Danish women, J. Perinat. Med. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [89] Dawodu, 2014, Heightened attention to supplementation is needed to improve the vitamin D status of breastfeeding mothers and infants when sunshine exposure is restricted, Matern. Child Health

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [90] Hannan, 2009, Maternal milk concentration of zinc, iron, selenium, and iodine and its relationship to dietary intakes, Biol. Trace Elem. Res. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [91] Charlton, 2012, Poor knowledge and practices related to iodine nutrition during pregnancy and lactation in australian women: Pre- and post-iodine fortification, Nutrients source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [92] Mulrine, 2010, Breast-milk iodine concentration declines over the first 6 mo postpartum in iodine-deficient women, Am. J. Clin. Nutr. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [93] Valent, 2011, Maternal diet and selenium concentration in human milk from an Italian population, J. Epidemiol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    In young children, mainly in industrialized countries, deficiencies may occur because many micronutrients (e.g., vitamin C and B vitamins) are found in fruit and green, leafy vegetables and children are often fussy about what they eat.

    “In young children, mainly in industrialized countries, deficiencies may occur because many micronutrients (e.g., vitamin C and B vitamins) are found in fruit and green, leafy vegetables and children are often fussy about what they eat.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    An insufficient intake of micronutrients in older people has been reported both in the community (vitamins A, B12, D and zinc) and at a higher prevalence in long-term care facilities (vitamins A, D, and E), while lower food intake has been associated with lower intakes of calcium, iron, zinc, B vitamins and vitamin E in older people.

    “An insufficient intake of micronutrients in older people has been reported both in the community (vitamins A, B12, D and zinc) and at a higher prevalence in long-term care facilities (vitamins A, D, and E) [101], while lower food intake has been associated with lower intakes of calcium, iron, zinc, B vitamins and vitamin E in older people [100].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [101] High, 2001, Nutritional strategies to boost immunity and prevent infection in elderly individuals, Clin. Infect. Dis. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [100] Drenowski, 2001, Impact of aging on eating behaviors, food choices, nutrition, and health status, J. Nutr. Health Aging

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Vitamin D intake is usually inadequate in most age groups worldwide, even in countries with mandatory food fortification, which can increase the risk of infection, especially respiratory tract infections.

    “Vitamin D intake is usually inadequate in most age groups worldwide, even in countries with mandatory food fortification [98], which can increase the risk of infection, especially respiratory tract infections [71].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [98] Palacios, 2014, Is vitamin D deficiency a major global public health problem?, J. Steroid Biochem. Mol. Biol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [71] Prentice, 2017, They are what you eat: Can nutritional factors during gestation and early infancy modulate the neonatal immune response?, Front. Immunol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Marginal zinc deficiency is common in older people, as their dietary intakes are generally lower and plasma zinc concentrations decline with age, possibly connected to impaired absorption, alterations in cellular uptake, and epigenetic dysregulation of DNA methylation or the methionine/transsulfuration pathway.

    “Marginal zinc deficiency is common in older people, as their dietary intakes are generally lower and plasma zinc concentrations decline with age, possibly connected to impaired absorption, alterations in cellular uptake, and epigenetic dysregulation of DNA methylation or the methionine/transsulfuration pathway, for example [14].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [14] Micronutrient Information Center (2018, April 17). Immunity in Depth. Available online: http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/immunity.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Immunological benefits of zinc supplementation help to reduce the incidence of infections such as common cold, cold sores and influenza, as well as the incidence and morbidity of pneumonia.

    “immunological benefits that help to reduce the incidence of infections such as common cold, cold sores and influenza [120], as well as the incidence and morbidity of pneumonia [121].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [120] Prasad, 2007, Zinc: Mechanisms of host defense, J. Nutr. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [121] Meydani, 2007, Serum zinc and pneumonia in nursing home elderly, Am. J. Clin. Nutr. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In young males with marginal vitamin C deficiency, supplementation was shown to reduce the incidence of common cold and the duration of cold symptoms compared with placebo, accompanied by improved activity levels.

    “For example, in young males with marginal vitamin C deficiency, supplementation was shown to reduce the incidence of common cold and the duration of cold symptoms compared with placebo, accompanied by improved activity levels [109].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [109] Johnston, 2014, Vitamin C supplementation slightly improves physical activity levels and reduces cold incidence in men with marginal vitamin C status: A randomized controlled trial, Nutrients source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Micronutrient supplementation with higher levels of vitamins C, E and beta-carotene increased the number of various subsets of T-cells, enhanced lymphocyte response to mitogen, increased IL-2 production and NK-cell activity, increased the response to the influenza virus vaccine, and led to fewer days of infection.

    “while micronutrient supplementation with higher levels of vitamins C, E and beta-carotene increased the number of various subsets of T-cells, enhanced lymphocyte response to mitogen, increased IL-2 production and NK-cell activity, increased the response to the influenza virus vaccine, and led to fewer days of infection [118].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [118] Chandra, 1992, Effect of vitamin and trace-element supplementation on immune responses and infection in elderly subjects, Lancet source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Supplementation with a complex micronutrient formulation in older people increased the number of various types of immune cells, including total lymphocytes, and induced a shift from memory T cells to naïve T cells.

    “Supplementation with a complex micronutrient formulation in older people increased the number of various types of immune cells, including total lymphocytes, and induced a shift from memory T cells to naïve T cells [119].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [119] Schmoranzer, 2009, Influence of a complex micronutrient supplement on the immune status of elderly individuals, Int. J. Vitam. Nutr. Res. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Supplementation with vitamin D can protect against respiratory tract infections and reduce the risk of acute respiratory illness and influenza, especially with once-daily dosing.

    “Supplementation with vitamin D can protect against respiratory tract infections and reduce the risk of acute respiratory illness and influenza, especially with once-daily dosing [112,113,114,115].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 4 sources checked
    • cites [112] Yamshchikov, 2009, Vitamin D for treatment and prevention of infectious diseases: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials, Endocr. Pract. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [113] Charan, 2012, Vitamin D for prevention of respiratory tract infections: A systematic review and meta-analysis, J. Pharmacol. Pharmacother. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [114] Bergman, P., Lindh, Å., Björkhem-Bergman, L., and Lindh, J. (2013). Vitamin D and respiratory tract infections: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. PLoS ONE, 8. source

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    • cites [115] Martineau, 2017, Vitamin D supplementation to prevent acute respiratory infections: Systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data, BMJ source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    There is a rationale for micronutrient supplementation to restore concentrations to recommended levels, especially after an infection, and to support immune function and maintenance.

    “Considering the importance of micronutrients in immunity, and the fact that many people of all ages have single or multiple micronutrient deficiencies that can have detrimental immunological effects, there is a rationale for micronutrient supplementation to restore concentrations to recommended levels, especially after an infection, and to support immune function and maintenance.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Vitamin C shortened the duration of a cold in children (especially with higher doses) and reduced the severity of symptoms; a greater effect was observed in children compared with adults, including a greater prophylactic effect of vitamin C.

    “Similar results have been observed with vitamin C, which shortened the duration of a cold in children (especially with higher doses) and reduced the severity of symptoms; a greater effect was observed in children compared with adults, including a greater prophylactic effect of vitamin C [105].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [105] Hemilä, H., and Chalker, E. (2013). Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold. Cochrane Database Syst. Rev., Available online: https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD000980.pub4/full. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Both zinc and vitamin C may also improve the outcome of pneumonia, malaria and diarrheal infections in children.

    “Both zinc and vitamin C may also improve the outcome of pneumonia, malaria and diarrheal infections in children [9].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [9] Wintergerst, 2006, Immune-enhancing role of vitamin C and zinc and effect on clinical conditions, Ann. Nutr. Metab. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Zinc can reduce both the risk and duration of pneumonia in children, help to manage infantile diarrhea, lead to fewer episodes of malaria, and reduce the duration of diarrhea.

    “Zinc can also reduce both the risk and duration of pneumonia in children, help to manage infantile diarrhea, lead to fewer episodes of malaria, and reduce the duration of diarrhea [3,17,71].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [3] Maggini, 2017, Vitamins C., D and zinc: Synergistic roles in immune function and infections, Vitam. Miner. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [17] World Health Organization, and Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (2006). Part 2. Evaluating the public health significance of micronutrient malnutrition. Guidelines on Food Fortification with Micronutrients, World Health Organization.

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [71] Prentice, 2017, They are what you eat: Can nutritional factors during gestation and early infancy modulate the neonatal immune response?, Front. Immunol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Multiple micronutrient supplementation in older people may also reduce antibiotic usage and lead to higher post-vaccination immune responses.

    “Multiple micronutrient supplementation in older people may also reduce antibiotic usage and lead to higher post-vaccination immune responses [33].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [33] Chandra, 2002, Nutrition and the immune system from birth to old age, Eur. J. Clin. Nutr. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In those under physical stress (e.g., at work, during sports, and under extreme temperatures), or in cases where vitamin C levels are slightly below recommended levels, vitamin C supplementation reduces common cold incidence.

    “In those under physical stress (e.g., at work, during sports, and under extreme temperatures) [104], or in cases where vitamin C levels are slightly below recommended levels, vitamin C supplementation reduces common cold incidence.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [104] Hemilä, H. (2017). Vitamin C and infections. Nutrients, 9. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of infection and autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and diabetes, probably related to activity of vitamin D receptors, which are found throughout the immune system.

    “Vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of infection and autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and diabetes, probably related to activity of vitamin D receptors, which are found throughout the immune system [106,107].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [106] Aranow, 2011, Vitamin D and the immune system, J. Investig. Med. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [107] Mangin, 2014, Inflammation and vitamin D: The infection connection, Inflamm. Res. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In children with vitamin A deficiency, supplementation can decrease the risk of morbidity and mortality from infectious diseases, and reduce the incidence of diarrhea and measles.

    “In children with vitamin A deficiency, supplementation can decrease the risk of morbidity and mortality from infectious diseases [77], and reduce the incidence of diarrhea and measles [14,71].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [77] Pettifor, J., and Zlotkin, S. (2004). Impact of micronutrient deficiencies on immune function. Micronutrient Deficiencies during the Weaning Period and the First Years of Life, Proceedings of the 54th Nestlé Nutrition Workshop, Pediatric Program, São Paulo, Brazil, 26–30 October 2003, Nestlé Nutrition Institute Workshop Series. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [14] Micronutrient Information Center (2018, April 17). Immunity in Depth. Available online: http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/immunity.

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [71] Prentice, 2017, They are what you eat: Can nutritional factors during gestation and early infancy modulate the neonatal immune response?, Front. Immunol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Distinct immune features are present during each life stage, and specific factors differentially affect immune function, with a resulting difference in the type, prevalence and severity of infections with age.

    “Distinct immune features are present during each life stage, and specific factors differentially affect immune function, with a resulting difference in the type, prevalence and severity of infections with age.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Supplementation with vitamin E in older people has been shown to significantly improve NK cytotoxic activity, neutrophil chemotaxis and the phagocytic response, and enhance mitogen-induced lymphocyte proliferation and IL-2 production.

    “Supplementation with vitamin E in older people has been shown to significantly improve NK cytotoxic activity, neutrophil chemotaxis and the phagocytic response, and enhance mitogen-induced lymphocyte proliferation and IL-2 production [123].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [123] Hernanz, 2008, Vitamin E ingestion improves several immune functions in elderly men and women, Free Radic. Res. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    There are some reports that an adequate zinc supply could prevent degenerative age-related diseases including infection and cancer.

    “There are some reports that an adequate zinc supply could prevent degenerative age-related diseases including infection and cancer [122].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [122] Mocchegiani, 2013, Zinc: Dietary intake and impact of supplementation on immune function in elderly, Age (Dordr.) source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Vitamin E can also improve T-cell-mediated immunity and increase the production of antibodies in response to the hepatitis B and tetanus vaccines.

    “Vitamin E can also improve T-cell-mediated immunity and increase the production of antibodies in response to the hepatitis B and tetanus vaccines [124].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [124] Meydani, 1997, Vitamin E supplementation and in vivo immune response in healthy elderly subjects. A randomized controlled trial, JAMA source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    The available clinical data suggest that micronutrient supplementation can reduce the risk and severity of infection and support a faster recovery.

    “The available clinical data suggest that micronutrient supplementation can reduce the risk and severity of infection and support a faster recovery.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).

    Interpretationreasoning

    Current knowledge regarding the importance of micronutrients in immunity, the effects of micronutrient deficiencies on the risk and severity of infection, and the worldwide prevalence of an inadequate micronutrient status form a sound basis for the use of a targeted multiple micronutrient supplement to support immunity over a person's lifetime.

    “Nevertheless, current knowledge regarding the importance of micronutrients in immunity, the effects of micronutrient deficiencies on the risk and severity of infection, and the worldwide prevalence of an inadequate micronutrient status form a sound basis for the use of a targeted multiple micronutrient supplement to support immunity over a person’s lifetime.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Adequate vitamin C intakes can optimize cell and tissue levels and help to protect against respiratory and systemic infections (e.g., reduced duration and severity of pneumonia).

    “Adequate vitamin C intakes can optimize cell and tissue levels and help to protect against respiratory and systemic infections (e.g., reduced duration and severity of pneumonia [71]), while higher levels are required during infection to compensate for the increased inflammatory response and metabolic demand induced by the pathogen, and thus help to reduce the duration and severity of symptoms [12]”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [71] Prentice, 2017, They are what you eat: Can nutritional factors during gestation and early infancy modulate the neonatal immune response?, Front. Immunol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).

    Interpretationreasoning

    Tailored supplementation based on the specific needs of each age group may help to provide an adequate basis for optimal immune function.

    “Tailored supplementation based on the specific needs of each age group may help to provide an adequate basis for optimal immune function.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The risk of upper respiratory tract infections, especially common cold, was significantly lower after vitamin E supplementation in nursing home residents, although there was no apparent effect on lower respiratory tract infections.

    “The risk of upper respiratory tract infections, especially common cold, was significantly lower after vitamin E supplementation in nursing home residents, although there was no apparent effect on lower respiratory tract infections [125].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [125] Meydani, 2004, Vitamin E and respiratory tract infections in elderly nursing home residents: A randomized controlled trial, JAMA source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    A common factor throughout life is the need for an adequate supply of micronutrients, which play key roles in supporting immune function.

    “A common factor throughout life is the need for an adequate supply of micronutrients, which play key roles in supporting immune function.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Sufficient vitamin C is also important in older people, who are at risk of vitamin C deficiency, especially females.

    “Sufficient vitamin C is also important in older people, who are at risk of vitamin C deficiency, especially females [96].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [96] Elmadfa, 2009, European Nutrition and Health Report, Forum Nutr. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    Multiple micronutrient deficiencies are common throughout the world, with the likelihood increasing with age.

    “Multiple micronutrient deficiencies are common throughout the world, with the likelihood increasing with age.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    The immune system undergoes many changes over the life course-developing and maturing during childhood, potentially achieving peak function in early adulthood, and gradually declining in most people in older age.

    “The immune system undergoes many changes over the life course—developing and maturing during childhood, potentially achieving peak function in early adulthood, and gradually declining in most people in older age (Figure 3).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Higher levels of vitamin C are required during infection to compensate for the increased inflammatory response and metabolic demand induced by the pathogen, and thus help to reduce the duration and severity of symptoms.

    “while higher levels are required during infection to compensate for the increased inflammatory response and metabolic demand induced by the pathogen, and thus help to reduce the duration and severity of symptoms [12].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [12] Carr, A., and Maggini, S. (2017). Vitamin C and immune function. Nutrients, 9. source

      Not checked in the free run.

92 of 92

Claims other papers make about this one

Each is checked against this paper’s own text: does it say what the citing paper says it does?

Self-check

Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.

Each contradiction between two passages listed here was confirmed by an independent check.

  • Two age groups are each said to have the lowest common-cold incidence

    Minor

    The paper says common-cold incidence is lowest in adolescents compared with all other age groups, but later says it is lowest in people over 60.

1 of 1

Cites

1 retracted

Flagged first, then by citations

Research works printed but not linked: 4

  1. Tortura, G.J., and Derrickson, B. (2014). Metabolism and nutrition. Principles of Anatomy and Physiology, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.. [8th ed.].
  2. Calder, P., Prescott, S., and Caplan, M. (2007). Scientific Review: The Role of Nutrients in Immune Function of Infants and Young Children, Mead Johnson & Company. Emerging Evidence for Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids.
  3. Gleeson, 2015, Effects of exercise on immune function, Sports Sci. Exch., 28, 1
  4. Institute of Medicine (2011). Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D, The National Academies Press.

Cited by

Sorted by citations

Authors
Maggini, S., Pierre, A., & Calder, P. C.
Affiliations
  • Bayer (Switzerland) (CH)
  • University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust (GB)
Corresponding author
Maggini, Silvia
Venue
Nutrients
Publisher
MDPI AG
Published
2018-10-17
Volume
10
Issue
10
Pages
1531
ISSN
2072-6643 (ISSN-L)
OpenAlex
W2896405623
Cited by
710
References
116
Citations by year
2026: 36 · 2025: 73 · 2024: 88 · 2023: 102 · 2022: 150 · 2021: 131 · 2020: 107 · 2019: 21 · 2017: 1 · 2016: 1
FWCI
11.76
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Locations
  • Nutrients (publishedVersion, cc-by)
  • Europe PMC (PubMed Central) (publishedVersion, other-oa)
  • PubMed Central (publishedVersion, cc-by)
  • PubMed (publishedVersion)
  • ePrints Soton (University of Southampton) (acceptedVersion)
  • DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals) (submittedVersion, cc-by-sa)
Topics
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health › Nutrition and Health Studies
  • Health Sciences › Nursing › Nutrition and Dietetics › Trace Elements in Health
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Physiology › Nutrition and Health in Aging
Keywords
immune function, micronutrient requirements, micronutrient deficiency, infection risk, aging, life course, immunocompetence, vitamin supplementation, iron, selenium, zinc, folic acid, B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, nutritional status
MeSH terms
Aging, Humans, Immunity, Infections, Nutritional Requirements, Nutritional Status, Trace Elements, Vitamins, Micronutrients, Dietary Supplements

About these checks

Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.

Claims read by deepseek-v4.1-flash under definition version 3 (extract-v3) on 2026-10-10.

Classified by jev-1.13-20260917 (gold-guideline-v0.2) on 2026-10-10.

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