It has been well established that as we age there is a decrease in the ability of the immune system to protect the body.  Protecting and strengthening the immune system is beneficial in every stage of life.  Our immune system works throughout the body to protect our health, detecting and destroying infections from bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. 

The danger from these infections is serious:  In 2004, 61,472 people in the United States alone, died from flu or pneumonia—eighth on the list causes of death in the United States.  Every year worldwide, about 215,000 people die from microbial inflammations known as sepsis—an infection of the blood that kills more people than most cancers put together.  Tuberculosis, considered to be under control in most parts of the world, was responsible for 1.7 million accidental deaths by the year of 2004, and at the same time new infectious diseases appeared, such as bird flu and SAARS, a severe inflammation of  the respiratory system.

As we age we become more vulnerable to these diseases. Researchers think that the process of aging is connected to the decrease in the ability of the immune system to resist infections, inflammations and cancers. Inflammations of respiratory system, flu, and in particular pneumonia are the main causes of death in people over the age of 65 worldwide.

As the life expectancy in the developed countries increases, incidences of these diseases also increase.  Fortunately, we have accumulated information that helps in dealing with many of the issues of disease and age.  Researchers have examined the connection between nutrition and the immune system in the aging adult. It is clear that the nutritional needs of aging adults are acute, even in countries where nutritious food is abundant.

Aging adults suffer from vitamin and mineral deficiencies, apparently because they tend to eat less overall, and their diets are often less varied.  Consuming nutritional additives such as vitamin and mineral supplements can help older people boost their immune systems, but it is important that individuals consult geriatric dieticians before adding supplements, because they can also have harmful effects under certain circumstances. 

Strengthening the immune system is a challenge, and there are many researchers examining the effects of nutrition, bodily activity, age, tensions and other issues on the immune system.

Generally speaking, there are quite simple lifestyle changes that can be established, to boost immune systems and promote optimal health for the entire body.  These changes can strengthen the first defense against environmental dangers that we cannot control.  These healthy lifestyle practices include:

1)     Wash hands before cooking, and cook meats thoroughly,

2)     Don’t smoke,

3)     Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, in whole grains, and non-saturated fats,

4)     Get regular physical activity,

5)     Maintain a healthy weight,

6)     Maintain a controlled blood pressure,

7)     Consume alcohol in moderation, 

8)     Get sufficient sleep,

9)     Get regular medical checkups.