Nutritional supplementation and infant immunity

Nutritional supplementation and infant immunity

Nutritional supplementation promotes infant immunity by providing essential micronutrients—such as vitamins A, C, D, and zinc—that act as regulators for immune cell development and molecular signaling. These nutrients enhance both innate and adaptive responses: vitamin A maintains mucosal integrity, vitamin D regulates antimicrobial proteins, and zinc supports T-cell proliferation. Targeted supplementation of these micronutrients plays a key role in optimizing long-term immune protection. 

Probiotics are essential for microbiome development and can preserve immunity against respiratory diseases during antibiotic treatment. Also, fatty acids like DHA and AA modulate immune responses and reduce risks of neonatal inflammatory conditions.

Source: Maggini S. (2018) Immune Function and Micronutrient Requirements Change over the Life Course. Nutrients