Update: effects of antioxidant and non-antioxidant vitamin supplementation on immune function

Nutr Rev. 2007 May;65(5):181-217. doi: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2007.tb00298.x.

Abstract

The purpose of this manuscript is to review the impact of supplementation with vitamins E and C, carotenoids, and the B vitamins on parameters of innate and adaptive immune function as reported from clinical trials in humans. There is evidence to support causal effects of supplementation with vitamins E and C and the carotenoids singly and in combination on selected aspects of immunity, including the functional capacity of innate immune cells, lymphocyte proliferation, and the delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response. Controlled intervention trials of B vitamin-containing multivitamin supplements suggest beneficial effects on immune parameters and clinical outcomes in HIV-positive individuals.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antibody Formation / drug effects*
  • Antibody Formation / physiology
  • Antioxidants / administration & dosage
  • Antioxidants / pharmacology*
  • Dietary Supplements
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy
  • HIV Infections / immunology
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity, Delayed / drug therapy
  • Hypersensitivity, Delayed / immunology
  • Immunity, Cellular / drug effects*
  • Immunity, Cellular / physiology
  • Immunity, Innate / drug effects*
  • Immunity, Innate / physiology
  • Respiratory Tract Infections / drug therapy
  • Respiratory Tract Infections / immunology
  • Vitamins / administration & dosage
  • Vitamins / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Antioxidants
  • Vitamins