|
ISSN 0973 - 0958
Impact of Fatty Acid Status on Immune Function
| Follow Us : |  |
 |
 |
NUTRITION IN CHILDREN
IMPACT OF FATTY ACID STATUS ON IMMUNE FUNCTION OF CHILDREN IN LOW-INCOME COUNTRIES
Source: Matern Child Nutr. 2011 Apr;7 Suppl 2:89-98.
Despite the numerous advances in medical knowledge, antibiotics, drug therapies and vaccines, infections are still by far the largest contributor to the high levels of infant and under-five mortality seen in many low income countries because of shortfalls in health provision, hygiene and vector control. Nutritional deficiencies are estimated to account (directly and indirectly) for about 35% of these deaths.
Populations in low-income countries, particularly post-weaning children, are very likely to have deficient intakes of LCPUFAs, which might affect immune function. This may be especially so in low-income settings where very low levels of total fat intake and low levels of dietary diversity can limit the intake of preformed long chain (LC) PUFAs and of the precursors of the n-6 and n-3 series PUFAs. There are multiple putative pathways through which fatty acids, especially LCPUFAs, may modulate immune function. This review article has summarized results of over 150 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in a low-income setting and their effect on immune system in children. There was evidence for improved growth and nutritional status, in children who received long chain (LC) PUFAs. This analysis suggests that fatty acid interventions could yield immune benefits in children in poor settings, especially in non-breastfed children and in relation to inflammatory conditions such as persistent enteropathy.
Despite the numerous advances in medical knowledge, antibiotics, drug therapies and vaccines, infections are still by far the largest contributor to the high levels of infant and under-five mortality seen in many low income countries because of shortfalls in health provision, hygiene and vector control. Nutritional deficiencies are estimated to account (directly and indirectly) for about 35% of these deaths.
Populations in low-income countries, particularly post-weaning children, are very likely to have deficient intakes of LCPUFAs, which might affect immune function. This may be especially so in low-income settings where very low levels of total fat intake and low levels of dietary diversity can limit the intake of preformed long chain (LC) PUFAs and of the precursors of the n-6 and n-3 series PUFAs. There are multiple putative pathways through which fatty acids, especially LCPUFAs, may modulate immune function. This review article has summarized results of over 150 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in a low-income setting and their effect on immune system in children. There was evidence for improved growth and nutritional status, in children who received long chain (LC) PUFAs. This analysis suggests that fatty acid interventions could yield immune benefits in children in poor settings, especially in non-breastfed children and in relation to inflammatory conditions such as persistent enteropathy.
Partner Sites
Disclaimer:
The information given by www.pediatriconcall.com is provided by medical and paramedical & Health providers voluntarily for display & is meant only for informational purpose. The site does not guarantee the accuracy or authenticity of the information. Use of any information is solely at the user's own risk. The appearance of advertisement or product information in the various section in the website does not constitute an endorsement or approval by Pediatric Oncall of the quality or value of the said product or of claims made by its manufacturer.
copyright ©2011 website design & development by Levioza
