Effects of a High‐Carbohydrate Diet on the Proinflammatory Interleukin Levels of Older Adults

Abstract

Immunosenescence involves changes on the cellular and molecular levels in the immune system, and is associated with aging. Higher incidence of autoimmune disorders and other inflammatory conditions, as well as increased rates of infectious disease, cancer, and mortality have been linked to these conditions. Proinflammatory interleukins (IL‐6) have been shown to increase while anti‐inflammatory interleukins (IL‐4, IL‐10) decrease with age. Energy restriction has been associated with altered cytokine production; thus, the purpose of this study is to examine the effects of a prescribed diet on immunosenescence in older adults.IL‐6 concentrations were analyzed from venous samples of 10 older adults (46–85 yrs) and compared to 9 younger adults (18–45 yrs). Five older adults consumed a high‐carbohydrate diet for three days. All other subjects consumed a normal diet. Older adults who consumed less than the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range for fat (20–35% of total calories) had lower IL‐6 levels comparable to younger subjects. Contrary to our hypothesis, a high‐carbohydrate diet did not lower IL‐6 levels however fat intake may contribute to a reversal of immunosenescence. Further investigation is warranted to investigate anti‐inflammatory factors contributing to changes in immunosenescence.This research was supported by the East Carolina University Division of Research and Graduate Studies.