Study Title
COVID-19: Is there a role for immunonutrition, particularly in the over 65s?
Principal Investigator
Emma Derbyshire, Joanne Delange.
Affiliation
Nutritional Insight, Surrey, UK.
Start Date
March 2020.
End Date
April 2020.
Study Objective
To evaluate the current evidence base regarding immunonutrition, with a focus on nutrients that support respiratory health and immune function, particularly for individuals over 65 years.
Short Abstract
This paper examines the roles of key nutrients like vitamins C, D, and zinc in supporting immune function, especially in relation to COVID-19. The elderly are highlighted as a population that could particularly benefit from targeted nutrition to strengthen immunity against respiratory infections.
Study Design
Literature review on the role of nutrients in immunity with a focus on older adults.
Population
Global, with a focus on individuals aged 65 and older.
Sample Size
Not applicable (review article).
Inclusion Criteria
Not specified.
Exclusion Criteria
Not specified.
Intervention/Exposure
None (review article).
Outcome Measures
Potential benefits of immunonutrition, especially in supporting respiratory health and reducing vulnerability to infections like COVID-19 in older adults.
Funding Source
None declared.
Collaborating Institutions
None specified.
Ethics Approval
Not required (review article).
Publication Status
Published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health (2020).
Keywords
Immunonutrition, COVID-19, vitamins, zinc, respiratory health, elderly.
Data Collection Methods
Review of existing literature on the role of nutrition in immune function.
Primary Data Availability
Not applicable (review article).
Contact Information
Dr. Emma Derbyshire,