Introduction:

As aging impacts the immune system, a study by Oregon State University suggests that a daily multivitamin and mineral supplement, rich in zinc and vitamin C, can enhance immunity in older adults. Nutrient levels and immunity are closely linked, with higher levels resulting in shorter and milder illness symptoms. Nutrient deficiencies become more common with age, increasing the risk of immune system decline. Multivitamin and mineral supplements can play a crucial role in supporting immune function, offering a holistic approach to immune health.

The Immune Challenge for Aging Adults

As we age, our immune systems face new challenges, making us more susceptible to infections and longer recovery times. But a fascinating study conducted by Oregon State University, published in the journal Nutrients in August 2020, sheds light on a simple yet effective solution to bolstering immunity in older adults. This study explores the benefits of a daily multivitamin and mineral supplement, enriched with zinc and high doses of vitamin C, on immune system parameters, common cold-type symptoms, and blood levels of key nutrients.

The Study: A Glimpse into Immunity

The study focused on 42 healthy individuals aged 55 to 75, aiming to understand the impact of a specific multivitamin and mineral supplement on their immune function. This supplement contained significant doses of vitamin C (1,000 mg) and zinc, two vital nutrients crucial for supporting the immune system. Researchers compared this group’s results with those of participants who received a placebo.

Nutrient Levels and Immunity

The findings were compelling: the group receiving the multivitamin and mineral supplement boasted higher blood levels of vitamin C and zinc compared to the placebo group. These nutrients play pivotal roles in supporting immune function. Remarkably, this translated into a shorter duration of cold and flu-like symptoms during the 3-month study. Those taking the supplement experienced only 3 days of illness per bout, whereas the placebo group endured more than 6 days of sickness. Additionally, the symptoms in the supplement group were less severe and resolved faster.

Aging, Deficiencies, and Immune Decline

The researchers emphasized that as individuals age, the risk of vitamin and mineral deficiencies that contribute to age-related immune system decline increases. Surprisingly, studies have shown that more than one-third of older adults in the United States, Canada, and Europe are deficient in at least one micronutrient, often more. This deficiency often leads to an immune system characterized by increased inflammation, reduced innate immune function, and decreased T-cell function.

The Power of Multivitamins and Minerals

The study’s authors pointed out that since multiple nutrients play a crucial role in supporting immune function, older adults can significantly benefit from multivitamin and mineral supplements. As one author commented, “This supports findings that stretch back decades, even to the days of Linus Pauling’s work with vitamin C.”

Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Immune Health

This research study reaffirms the importance of supplementing with key nutrients that support immune function. Studies in recent years have consistently demonstrated that such supplementation can lead to improved protection against a range of infections. For most adults, a high-potency multiple vitamin and mineral supplement providing the following daily dosages can help fortify the immune system:

• Vitamin A – 2500 IU
• Vitamin C – 1,000 mg
• Vitamin D – 1,000 IU (to achieve a blood level of 85-140 nmol/L or 35-56 ng/ml)
• Vitamin E – 400 IU
• Zinc – 15 mg
• Selenium – 200 mcg

References

1. Mary L. Fantacone, Malcolm B. Lowry, Sandra L. Uesugi, Alexander J. Michels, Jaewoo Choi, Scott W. Leonard, Sean K. Gombart, Jeffrey S. Gombart, Gerd Bobe, Adrian F. Gombart. “The Effect of a Multivitamin and Mineral Supplement on Immune Function in Healthy Older Adults: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial.” Nutrients, 2020; 12 (8): 2447 [Link](https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/12/8/2447)
2. Science Daily, August 18, 2020: “Multivitamin, mineral supplement linked to less-severe, shorter-lasting illness symptoms”

Dr. James Meschino