As individuals grow older, their immune system undergoes a restructuring process, leading to a slowdown in immune organ function. This reduction in function impacts the body’s ability to combat pathogens due to changes in innate immunity, which consists of physical barriers like skin, stomach acid, and mucosal membranes.
With aging, immune cells struggle to recognize antigenic changes, resulting in a decreased ability to fight off infections. Additionally, the aging immune system sees an increase in cytokine secretion and a decrease in macrophages and natural killer cells, leading to chronic inflammation known as “inflammaging.”
Inflammaging disrupts the gut microbiota, affecting the digestive system which plays a crucial role in overall immune function. Microbial diversity in the gut decreases with age, influenced by dietary changes and innate immune shifts. Introducing prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics, and other ingredients into the diet can enhance gut microbial diversity and improve immune function in older adults.
Rebuilding the system
Dietary fiber, such as oligosaccharides, pectin, and inulin, plays a crucial role in immune health for seniors. These compounds improve epithelial cell barrier integrity and support innate immunity and gut health.
Oligosaccharides have been linked to enhancing the innate immune system and reducing inflammation. They have an immunomodulatory effect, especially fructo-oligosaccharides and galacto-oligosaccharides, which act as prebiotics for the gut microbiome. Additionally, fructans like inulin reinforce the gut microbiome as a prebiotic fiber.
Pairing these compounds with probiotics like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species can help restore gut microbial balance and improve epithelial integrity. Sources of these prebiotics include foods like artichokes, garlic, bananas, and onions.
Antioxidants, such as those found in chia seeds, help alleviate various health concerns. These compounds can be obtained from vitamins or dietary sources like red and purple fruits and vegetables, kale, red wine, and black tea.
Quercetin, in particular, has cardiovascular benefits and anti-inflammatory properties. When combined with zinc, quercetin’s health benefits are enhanced, making it a valuable supplement for men who typically consume fewer quercetin-containing foods.
Taking heart
CoQ-10, a powerful antioxidant, supports immune function by regulating cell metabolism and removing free radicals. It is recommended for individuals over 50 to reduce vascular oxidative stress and improve overall health.
Endogenous CoQ-10 production declines with age, making supplementation beneficial for both men and women, particularly those with cardiovascular issues. CoQ-10 can be sourced from various foods, including meat, poultry, seafood, legumes, fruits, and vegetables.
Supplementation with tocotrienol, a form of vitamin E, promotes cardiovascular health, reduces oxidative stress, and supports cognitive function in seniors. Tocotrienols found in sources like annatto, red palm oil, and rice bran oil have been shown to benefit bone health and reduce the risk of diseases like breast cancer.
Bone and joint health
Hydrolyzed collagen is effective in reducing inflammation, improving bone health, and promoting joint repair in post-menopausal women at risk for osteoporosis. This ingredient supports immune health by inhibiting inflammation and strengthening cartilage and bones.
Combining hydrolyzed collagen with minerals like calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and vitamins like C can improve skin elasticity and support bone and joint health. Hydrolyzed collagen paired with glucosamine can improve joint pain and function in patients with osteoarthritis.
With a significant portion of the population over 55, the demand for immune-supporting products for seniors is on the rise. Including botanical ingredients, antioxidants, dietary fibers, and supplements in their diet can greatly benefit their overall health and well-being.
Botanical Intervention
Botanical ingredients have a long history of use in traditional medicine practices and can contribute to immune health. Incorporating these ingredients in foods and beverages can aid in disease prevention and overall health maintenance.
First Line of Defense
The skin acts as the body’s primary defense against external threats, but its effectiveness diminishes with age. Consumption of hydrolyzed collagen can lead to improved skin health and immune function by promoting the production of new collagen fibers.
Ingredients for Seniors
For a quick guide on essential ingredients for supporting health and immunity in individuals over 55, refer to this infographic.
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Emil Kovács graduated from the Journalism program at Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary. During his journalism studies, he focused on data journalism, investigative reporting, and multimedia storytelling. He gained experience by writing for the university’s student newspaper, where he gained attention for his articles on social issues. After graduation, Emil began working as a reporter at a European news agency, where he conducts in-depth analyses of international news and current events.
