Increasing evidence suggests that chronic metabolic diseases are deeply intertwined with immune system dysregulation, oxidative stress and persistent low-grade inflammation—factors that drive both their onset and progression. Lifestyle choices, and diet in particular, play a crucial role in modulating immune function, influencing the delicate balance between defense and dysfunction. In this context, immunonutrition emerges as a key approach to understanding how specific nutrients can shape immune responses and impact metabolic health.

In the frame of a healthy diet, including traditional and staple foods, functional ingredients and novel foods—i.e., symbiotic formulations, bioactive compounds, and even emerging alternative ingredients like edible insects—have gained attention for their potential immunomodulatory effects. These dietary components may actively contribute to immune homeostasis by modulating gut-associated immune responses, thus reducing inflammation and enhancing anti-oxidative stress pathways. Understanding how specific foods components, functional ingredients and dietary patterns interact with the immune system is essential for designing targeted nutritional strategies aimed at supporting immune resilience and preventing disease.

This Research Topic aims to compile cutting-edge research exploring the impact of traditional and novel foods, as well as dietary patterns, on immune system modulation. We welcome both original research articles and comprehensive reviews on topics including, but not limited to:

• In vitro models assessing the immunomodulatory properties of functional and novel foods, investigating mechanisms such as cytokine secretion, oxidative stress markers, and gut microbiota interaction with the immune system;
• In vivo animal studies investigating the effects of innovative dietary components on immune system regulation and inflammatory pathways.
• Human dietary intervention studies evaluating the role of foods, ingredients, and bioactive compounds in modulating immune function, including clinical trials and epidemiological studies, both in immune system homeostasis and disease prevention.
• Population-based studies analyzing the associations between dietary patterns, nutrient intake, and immune-related health and disease outcomes.
•Epidemiological studies evaluating the pro- and anti-inflammatory potential of specific dietary patterns in healthy or diseases-affected human populations.
• Microbiome and immune system interactions, exploring how dietary interventions influence gut microbiota composition and its subsequent effects on immune modulation.
• Public health and policy implications: examining the impact of nutrition-based strategies for immune health in different populations and their relevance for public health policies.

For all the above-mentioned cases, the characterization of raw materials, extracts, foods, etc., in terms of chemical and nutritional composition is strongly recommended.

By gathering the latest scientific insights, this Research Topic seeks to advance the field of immunonutrition, offering new perspectives on the development of dietary strategies to enhance immune health and prevent immune-related disorders.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Immunonutrition: The Role of Foods, Functional Ingredients and Dietary Patterns in Immune System Modulation