Nutrition, Immunity, and Infection in Infants and Children

Written by an international group of experts, this volume reviews recent findings on the relationship between nutrition, immunity, and infection in infants and children. Chapters discuss the impact of low birth weight and protein-energy malnutrition on immune function and the effects of dietary fatty acids, iron, zinc, and vitamins on the immune response. The risk factors for the development of allergies are also examined. Full consideration is given to the ways in which infection alters metabolism and nutritional status. Other chapters discuss the effects of malnutrition on HIV progression and the impact of HIV and parasitic diseases on nutritional status