Is Micronutrient Supplementation Helpful in Supporting the Immune System during Prolonged, High-Intensity Physical Training?
- PMID: 39275323
- PMCID: PMC11397090
- DOI: 10.3390/nu16173008
Is Micronutrient Supplementation Helpful in Supporting the Immune System during Prolonged, High-Intensity Physical Training?
Abstract
It is well known that during prolonged, high-intensity physical training, athletes experience a state of immunosuppression and that balanced nutrition can help maintain immunity. This review summarizes the effects (amplified by virus infection) of high-intensity, long-term exercise on immunity, critically presenting key micronutrients and supplementation strategies that can influence athletes' performance and their immune system. The main conclusion is that micronutrient supplementation with diet could help to protect the immune system from the stress effects induced by intense physical activities. The importance of personalized supplementation has been also recommended.
Keywords: immune susceptibility; intensive exercise; micronutrients; nutrition; physical activity; sports nutrition.
Conflict of interest statement
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
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