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Virus Infection: Difference between revisions
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Viral infections, including lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) and COVID-19, pose significant health risks worldwide. The immune system plays a critical role in combating these infections. Current research underscores the importance of micronutrients in enhancing immune function. This article reviews the impact of specific micronutrients on the immune system and discusses the potential of supplementation as a supportive strategy against viral infections.{{pmid|33092041}} | Viral infections, including lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) and COVID-19, pose significant health risks worldwide. The immune system plays a critical role in combating these infections. Current research underscores the importance of micronutrients in enhancing immune function. This article reviews the impact of specific micronutrients on the immune system and discusses the potential of supplementation as a supportive strategy against viral infections.{{pmid|33092041}} | ||
==Importance of Micronutrients in Immune | ==Importance of Micronutrients in Immune Response== | ||
The immune response can be broadly classified into two types: the inflammatory and innate immune response, and the adaptive immune response. | |||
* The '''inflammatory and innate immune response''' is the body's first line of defense, providing an immediate but non-specific response to pathogens. This includes physical barriers such as skin and mucous membranes, as well as immune cells that recognize and attack invaders. Key components of this response are the innate cells like natural killer (NK) cells and macrophages, which act quickly to prevent the spread of infections. | |||
* In contrast, the '''adaptive immune response''' is highly specific and involves the body's ability to recognize and remember specific pathogens for a faster response upon subsequent exposures. This branch of the immune system includes B cells, which produce antibodies, and T cells, which can directly kill infected cells or help coordinate other parts of the immune system. | |||
Micronutrients play a pivotal role in supporting both types of immune responses. Adequate intake of certain vitamins and minerals is crucial for the maintenance and enhancement of immune function. Below is a summary of key micronutrients and their contributions to both the inflammatory and innate, as well as the adaptive immune responses. | |||
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Each micronutrient listed in the table above contributes to the immune system in unique ways, supporting various cells and functions within the inflammatory and innate, and adaptive immune responses. Vitamins such as A, C, and D, minerals like zinc, and fatty acids like omega-3 are instrumental in ensuring that the immune system operates effectively to protect the body against infections. | |||
==Supplementation as a Supportive Measure== | ==Supplementation as a Supportive Measure== | ||
Supplementation with these micronutrients is seen as a safe, cost-effective way to bolster the immune system. It is recommended to supplement these nutrients in addition to maintaining a balanced diet, adhering to the upper safety limits set by health authorities. | Supplementation with these micronutrients is seen as a safe, cost-effective way to bolster the immune system. It is recommended to supplement these nutrients in addition to maintaining a balanced diet, adhering to the upper safety limits set by health authorities. | ||