Summary
This narrative review synthesises evidence on the roles of multiple micronutrients in supporting immune function and reducing infection risk. The authors establish that whilst vitamins C and D and zinc have the strongest evidence base, adequate intakes of a broader suite of micronutrients—including vitamins A, E, B6, B12, folate, iron, copper, and selenium—are essential for proper immune cell and barrier function. The review highlights that daily micronutrient intakes needed for optimal immune support may exceed current recommended dietary allowances, and that supplementation with multiple micronutrients may offer benefits in populations with inadequate intake or elevated demand (e.g. during infection, stress, or pollution exposure).
Regional applicability
The review is global in scope and does not target United Kingdom populations specifically. However, its findings are applicable to UK dietary guidance and public health policy, particularly regarding micronutrient supplementation strategies for vulnerable populations and those with elevated infection risk.
Key measures
Micronutrient adequacy, immune cell function, infection risk, dietary intakes relative to recommended dietary allowances, supplementation effects
Outcomes reported
The review synthesises evidence on the roles of multiple micronutrients (vitamins A, D, C, E, B6, B12, folate, zinc, iron, copper, selenium) in immune function and infection risk. It identifies micronutrients with the strongest evidence for immune support and discusses the potential for supplementation to modulate immune function.
Topic tags
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