Meeting daily nutritional needs is indeed quite 'tricky' to live. It is undeniable, many of us like to choose the food we want to eat. This can cause daily nutritional needs to be not appropriately met, even leading to deficiency. As we know, nutritional intake for the body plays an essential role in maintaining the immune system function properly. Meeting their needs can certainly help protect you from various health problems.

To be able to meet daily nutritional needs, many people choose to take supplements. Supplements are processed products that contain one or more nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, and fibre. Supplements are considered a 'complete package' in helping to meet daily nutritional needs, especially for those who are elderly. Yes, with age, the risk of vitamin and mineral dietary deficiencies will also increase. If left unchecked, this can lead to the risk of various health problems associated with a weakened immune system.

The addition of supplement intake has been shown to help reduce this risk. According to the results of a recent study conducted by Oregon State University, the addition of a multivitamin and mineral supplement that is high in zinc and vitamin C can help shorten the duration of illness and relieve symptoms. In this study, researchers analysed the effectiveness of supplement intake on the immune system to 42 participants with an age range of 55-75 years. Afterwards, blood samples were taken to see zinc levels, vitamins C and D, which are included in micronutrients essential in the immune system.

As a result, those who take supplements are known to have a better immune system than those who do not consume them. Supplement intake is also known to increase blood levels of vitamin C and zinc. Interestingly, the consumption of supplements can help relieve the symptoms of the disease and shorten its duration. Given these results, the researchers suggest taking supplements, especially for the elderly, to reduce the risk of nutritional deficiencies and prevent other health problems. But keep in mind, supplements are just additional intake to help support health and not a total meal replacement. Therefore, you must maintain a good diet.

Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from: Pixabay

Source(s):

• Fantacone, M.L., Lowry, M.B., Uesugi, S.L., et al (2020). The Effect of a Multivitamin and Mineral Supplement on Immune Function in Healthy Older Adults: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial. Nutrients, DOI: 10.3390/nu12082447.
• Science Daily - Multivitamin, mineral supplement linked to less-severe, shorter-lasting illness symptoms (2020). https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/08/200818094048.htm, August 19, 2020.