Immune Aging & Therapeutic Targets

As people age, their immune systems gradually decline in efficiency, leading to an increased susceptibility to various diseases. This phenomenon, known as immunosenescence, is accompanied by chronic low-grade inflammation, termed “inflammaging.” Inflammaging is linked to several age-related diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and dementia. The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the increased vulnerability of older adults due to inflammaging.

To mitigate these effects, several lifestyle interventions have been identified as beneficial. Regular physical exercise, optimal nutrition, and the use of probiotics can help modulate the immune system and improve health outcomes in the elderly. Specifically, the Mediterranean diet, rich in anti-inflammatory foods, has shown potential in reducing inflammation and enhancing immune function. Additionally, functional medicine focuses on addressing the underlying mechanisms of immune aging, offering a comprehensive approach to managing age-related immune decline.

For more detailed information, visit the full article here.