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Nutrition and Autoimmune Diseases
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Nutrition and Autoimmune Diseases

A special issue of Nutrients (ISSN 2072-6643). This special issue belongs to the section "Nutritional Immunology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 February 2025) | Viewed by 10785

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Rosaria Maddalena Ruggeri

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood DETEV "G. Barresi", Endocrinology Unit, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
Interests: oxidative stress; antioxidants; autoimmunity; autoimmune diseases; immunonutrition; inflammation; mediterranea diet; functional foods and supplements (e.g., vitamins, minerals, plant bioactive compounds); thyroid diosrders; neuroendocrine tumors
Prof. Dr. Silvana Hrelia

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department for Life Quality Studies, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 47921 Rimini, Italy
Interests: cellular biochemistry; nutritional biochemistry; oxidative stress; antioxidants; nutraceuticals
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Maria Cristina Barbalace

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department for Life Quality Studies, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
Interests: cellular biochemistry; nutraceuticals; neurodegeneration; oxidative stress; inflammation; antioxidants
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Autoimmune diseases (AIDs) result from a failure of immunological tolerance to self-antigens and the consequent activation of immune responses against self-tissues, with consequent tissue damage and loss of function. The prevalence of AIDs has been steadily increasing in recent decades, and about 4% of the general population worldwide has at least one autoimmune disease, with women being more affected than men. The pathogenesis is not understood completely, but is largely due to the interaction between genetic and environmental factors. In particular, changes in our exposure to environmental triggers are deemed to play crucial roles in such a rise in autoimmunity and are mainly observed in richer and more industrialized societies. Among these, nutritional factors appear to be of increasing importance. Nutritional status is closely associated with immunity and host resistance to infection, and the interconnection between nutrition and the immune system has been an area of growing interest in recent years.

The complexity of the interaction between nutrition and immunology is vast. An individual’s overall nutrition status, state of nourishment, and pattern of food intake (comprising foods, nutrients, and non-nutritive bioactive compounds) impact the immune system’s function; this impact can occur at the level of physical barriers (e.g., the skin and intestinal mucous membranes), the microbiome, the innate immune system (e.g., macrophage function and polarization), and the adaptive immune system (e.g., T- and B-cell function). Conversely, the immune system impacts nutrition metabolism and needs, and influences the physiological response to food.

This Special Issue welcomes manuscripts involving preclinical and clinical research, observational and meta-analysis studies, and analytical reviews focused on the role of nutrition in the immune response, autoimmunity, and potential nutritional strategies to manage autoimmune diseases.

Dr. Rosaria Maddalena Ruggeri
Prof. Dr. Silvana Hrelia
Dr. Maria Cristina Barbalace
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Nutrients is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • autoimmune diseases
  • nutrition
  • immune system
  • inflammation
  • oxidative stress
  • microbiota
  • nutraceuticals

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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15 pages, 291 KiB  
Article
No Association Between Diet Quality, Nutritional Status, and Quality of Life in Women with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis—A Cross-Sectional Study
by Karolina Osowiecka, Damian Skrypnik and Joanna Myszkowska-Ryciak
Nutrients 2025, 17(6), 1015; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17061015 - 14 Mar 2025
Viewed by 833
Abstract
Objectives: Dietary habits are identified as a potential factor influencing the quality of life of individuals diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease (HAT). The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between quality of diet and selected parameters of nutritional status, and quality [...] Read more.
Objectives: Dietary habits are identified as a potential factor influencing the quality of life of individuals diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease (HAT). The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between quality of diet and selected parameters of nutritional status, and quality of life in female patients with HAT. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 147 women aged 39.9 ± 10.39 years. Diet quality was determined with the Pro-Healthy Diet Index (pHDI-10), quality of life with a thyroid-specific questionnaire (ThyPROpl), and gastrointestinal symptoms with the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS). Results: The mean pHDI-10 score was 25.5 ± 9.59; 80% of women had a low pro-healthy diet quality (LQD group, 21.9 ± 6,89 pts.) and 20% had a medium pro-healthy diet quality (MQD group, 39.7 ± 4.69 pts.). Nutritional status and anthropometric and health risk parameters did not differ between the groups. The ThyPROpl score was 49.15 ± 31.16 (LQD: 49.58 ± 31.01, MQD: 47.41 ± 32.28, p = 0.73). Conclusions: Quality of diet was not associated with the quality of life or nutritional status of HAT patients. However, the majority of participants showed poor healthy eating habits, elevated body mass index and unsatisfactory quality of life in areas, such as tiredness, hypothyroid symptoms, depression, emotional vulnerability, and anxiety. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Autoimmune Diseases)
18 pages, 5110 KiB  
Article
Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) Ameliorates Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis by Modulating Regulatory T Cell Function
by Andrés A. Herrada, Francisca Rodríguez-Arriaza, Alexandra Olate-Briones, Sofía Albornoz-Muñoz, Jorge Y. Faúndez-Acuña, Victor Rojas-Henríquez, Ledaliz Retamal-Quinteros, Carolina Prado and Noelia Escobedo
Nutrients 2025, 17(5), 897; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17050897 - 4 Mar 2025
Viewed by 2071
Abstract
Background/Objectives: In Latin America, yerba mate (YM) is a popular infusion processed from the leaves and stems of Ilex paraguariensis. YM has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties in several studies, although the effect of YM on multiple sclerosis (MS) remains elusive. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: In Latin America, yerba mate (YM) is a popular infusion processed from the leaves and stems of Ilex paraguariensis. YM has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties in several studies, although the effect of YM on multiple sclerosis (MS) remains elusive. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of YM on the development of MS, by using the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mouse model while also evaluating its effect over infiltration of immune cells into the central nervous system (CNS) and regulatory T cell (Treg) function. Methods: YM or vehicle were administrated to mice daily by oral gavage for seven days prior to EAE induction and during the entire course of the disease. EAE score was recorded daily, and immune cell infiltration into the CNS was measured by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. Results: Our results showed that YM administration decreases EAE symptoms and immune cell infiltration into the CNS, along with reducing demyelination, compared to the vehicle treatment. Moreover, an increase in the Treg population, immune cells capable of generating tolerance and decreased inflammation, was observed in mice receiving YM, together with improved Treg suppressive capabilities after YM treatment in vitro. Conclusions: In summary, we showed that YM promotes an immunosuppressive environment by modulating Treg function, reducing EAE symptoms and immune cell infiltration into the brain, and suggesting that YM consumption could be a good cost-effective treatment for MS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Autoimmune Diseases)
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14 pages, 1022 KiB  
Article
Iodine Nutritional Status and Thyroid Autoimmunity in Chinese Children and Adolescents Aged 6–17 Years
by Xueqing Li, Jiafeng Zhang, Hao Ding, Pengcheng Tu, Lizhi Wu, Mingluan Xing, Huixia Niu, Zhe Mo and Zhijian Chen
Nutrients 2024, 16(21), 3720; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16213720 - 30 Oct 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1026
Abstract
Background: Thyroid autoimmunity (TAI), marked by thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) and thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb), affects over 10% of the general population, with children and adolescents experiencing significant impacts on growth and quality of life despite lower prevalence rates compared to adults. Methods: In [...] Read more.
Background: Thyroid autoimmunity (TAI), marked by thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) and thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb), affects over 10% of the general population, with children and adolescents experiencing significant impacts on growth and quality of life despite lower prevalence rates compared to adults. Methods: In the context of over 20 years of universal salt iodization (USI) in China, this study investigated the relationship between iodine nutritional status and TAI in children and adolescents aged 6–17. Results: Our findings suggest that while iodine levels are generally sufficient (median urinary iodine concentration [UIC] was 205.2 µg/L), TAI remains a significant concern due to its potential impact on growth and development. TAI was significantly associated with age, sex, and urban–rural residency (p < 0.05). Positive TPOAb and TgAb were identified as risk factors for subclinical hypothyroidism (OR = 2.274, 95% CI: 1.171–1.916). Although some literature suggests that excessive iodine may exacerbate TAI and others propose iodine deficiency as a risk factor, this study did not find a significant overall association between iodine status and TAI. Notably, a low urinary iodine-to-creatinine ratio (UI/Cr) level was linked to an increased risk of TgAb positivity in males (OR = 3.470, 95% CI: 1.200–10.036). In individuals with negative thyroid antibodies, increased BMI (OR = 1.062, 95% CI: 1.032–1.093) and high UI/Cr levels (OR = 1.510, 95% CI: 1.175–1.941) were risk factors for subclinical hypothyroidism, whereas older age (OR = 0.710, 95% CI: 0.555–0.908 for the age 9–11 group; OR = 0.681, 95% CI = 0.484–0.959 for the age 12–17 group) and high UIC levels (OR = 0.739, 95% CI: 0.554–0.985) were associated with reduced risk. No significant associations were observed in the thyroid antibody-positive group. Conclusions: These results highlight the importance of considering individual TAI status when devising iodine supplementation policies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Autoimmune Diseases)
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13 pages, 730 KiB  
Article
The Role of Diet in Multiple Sclerosis Onset: A Prospective Study Using UK Biobank
by Camilla Barbero Mazzucca, Lorenza Scotti, Cristoforo Comi, Domizia Vecchio, Annalisa Chiocchetti and Giuseppe Cappellano
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1746; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111746 - 2 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3663
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating autoimmune condition primarily affecting young adults, and its rise is evident globally. Despite this, its precise etiology remains elusive. Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to MS susceptibility; however, the link between diet and MS lacks substantial [...] Read more.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating autoimmune condition primarily affecting young adults, and its rise is evident globally. Despite this, its precise etiology remains elusive. Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to MS susceptibility; however, the link between diet and MS lacks substantial evidence due to limited large-scale studies. We exploited the UK Biobank resources to explore the nexus between diet, lifestyle, and MS risk. The dietary and lifestyle habits of MS incident cases, derived from a general food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) completed by all participants at study enrollment, were compared to those of subjects who did not develop MS during the follow-up. Our findings suggest the protective role of moderate oily fish consumption and weekly alcohol intake. Furthermore, by analyzing food intake data obtained through 24 h recall, completed by a subset of participants, we found a protective, though non-significant, trend of an increased adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD). These findings, derived from the analysis of the UK Biobank and representing an unprecedented approach for this inquiry, warrant further exploration and integration in future research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Autoimmune Diseases)
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Review

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31 pages, 1314 KiB  
Review
Unlocking the Power of the Mediterranean Diet: Two in One—Dual Benefits for Rheumatic and Thyroid Autoimmune Diseases
by Maria Cristina Barbalace, Rossella Talotta, Federica Rapisarda, Valeria D’Amico, Martina Laganà, Marco Malaguti, Alfredo Campennì, Salvatore Cannavò, Silvana Hrelia and Rosaria Maddalena Ruggeri
Nutrients 2025, 17(8), 1383; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17081383 - 19 Apr 2025
Viewed by 615
Abstract
In recent years, autoimmune diseases are becoming more and more prevalent worldwide, with this rapid rise being influenced by environmental factors linked to lifestyle changes in modern societies. In this context, the role of diet has been the topic of extensive research as [...] Read more.
In recent years, autoimmune diseases are becoming more and more prevalent worldwide, with this rapid rise being influenced by environmental factors linked to lifestyle changes in modern societies. In this context, the role of diet has been the topic of extensive research as evidence has mounted that particular dietary patterns may contribute to or modulate autoimmunity. The present review specifically focuses on the Mediterranean diet (MD) as a whole dietary pattern, and on its peculiar components, such as n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), polyphenols and fiber. We explored their potential benefits in a spectrum of both systemic and organ-specific autoimmune disorders, including rheumatic diseases (like rheumatic arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus), and thyroid diseases (like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis), since they often occur in the same individuals. Here, we offer a comprehensive review about the influence of dietary factors on these autoimmune diseases and potential translation into therapeutic interventions, as an adjuvant therapeutic approach to improve autoimmunity-related outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Autoimmune Diseases)
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17 pages, 935 KiB  
Review
Nutritional Strategies for the Treatment and Prevention of Sepsis Outside the Intensive Care Unit
by Maurizio Gabrielli, Raffaella Zaccaria, Michele Impagnatiello, Lorenzo Zileri Dal Verme and Antonio Gasbarrini
Nutrients 2024, 16(23), 3985; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16233985 - 21 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2673
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition characterized by an imbalanced immune response to infection, posing a significant challenge in hospital settings due to its high morbidity and mortality rates. While much attention has been given to patients in the ICU, uncertainties remain regarding [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition characterized by an imbalanced immune response to infection, posing a significant challenge in hospital settings due to its high morbidity and mortality rates. While much attention has been given to patients in the ICU, uncertainties remain regarding the nutritional management of septic patients in non-intensive wards. This narrative review aims to address these gaps by exploring key aspects of nutritional care in sepsis patients admitted to non-intensive wards. Methods: We examine the pathophysiological mechanisms driving metabolic alterations in sepsis, methods for effective nutritional assessment, and supplementation strategies, including the potential role of specific nutrients. Additionally, we discuss the preventive role of nutrition, with a focus on gut microbiota modulation. Conclusions: By synthesizing the available literature, this review provides evidence-based insights to guide nutritional strategies for managing sepsis in patients hospitalized in non-intensive wards and highlights critical areas for future research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Autoimmune Diseases)
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