A Review of the Role Micronutrient Status in the Elderly Plays in Their Immune Response to Viral Respiratory Infections and the Potential Compromising Effects Medications Might Cause

Abstract

The elderly are a growing proportion of the global population. They are more susceptible to non-communicable diseases and respiratory viral diseases like influenza and covid19, which may lead to increased levels of morbidity and mortality than those of a younger generation. It is also reported that co-morbidities, especially diabetes, hypertension and coronary heart disease contribute significantly to the prognosis with these types of infections. That the immune system operates in a less efficient way as an individual ages, is now well understood and likely contributes significantly to this situation. The role of certain micronutrients in maintaining a healthy immune system is well recognised and demonstrated to play an important role both in preventing and controlling infection. However, for a number of reasons many elderly individuals have a less than optimal intake of many of the micronutrients that support the immune system. This review examines the contributory roles an aging immune system, suboptimal intake of micronutrients, comorbidities and the impact of the intake of medications typically used to treat them can play in the outcome of viral respiratory infections. It identifies the need for supplementation, especially in the elderly to support the immune system.

A Literature Review of the Potential Impact of Medication on Vitamin D Status

“… 247 Given that these conditions are typically treated with many of the medications discussed above, often using them concurrently, their potential impact on vitamin D status is likely to be additive. Indeed, many of these medications can also compromise other vitamins and minerals recognized to maintain and support a healthy immune system, which is clearly of benefit in the current pandemic, 248 but this consequence does not appear to have been taken into consideration in any supplementation guidelines issued to overcome potential suboptimal levels or deficiencies in these patients.…”

Phytic Acid and Whole Grains for Health Controversy

“…For example, iron deficiency leading to anemia is related to poor body functioning and increased morbidity and mortality in all age groups [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ] The first months of life are particularly crucial because of the lasting effects later in life, even after iron stores restoration [ 6 ]. A poor magnesium status is associated with increased risks of diabetes and osteoporosis [ 7 , 8 ] and mineral-trace element deficiencies are related to impaired immune competence, especially in the elderly, and stunted growth in children [ 9 , 10 , 11 ]. Depending on country, food culture, food availability and related food purchases, the daily phytate intake is known to differ between westernized and low-income countries such as south and southeast Asia and central Africa, as well as between urban (large cities) and rural Chinese communities, where many low-income families reside [ 12 , 13 ].…”