Micronutrients and respiratory infections: the biological rationale and current state of clinical evaluation

A range of nutrients has been studied or proposed for use in preventing respiratory tract infections and reducing their severity. This article gives a narrative review of the existing literature, biological rationales and current state of clinical evaluation for micronutrient therapies. The importance of vitamin A, the B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin D, eicosapentaenoic acid, vitamin E, selenium, zinc and a range of combination therapies are discussed, looking at their effects on reducing rates of infection, reducing severity of infection and improved recovery from infection. Further discussion regarding the level of evidence required for nutritional interventions is included.