Researchers have discovered that certain T-cells, a type of white blood cells, become more effective after a meal. These T-cells act like a microscopic army that seeks out and eliminates viruses, bacteria, or precancerous cells in the body. Greg Delgoffe, an immunologist at the University of Pittsburgh and the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, explained that eating plays a crucial role in combating infections, as revealed in a study published in the journal Nature in April.
In the study, blood samples were collected from 31 healthy volunteers twice in one day: once in the morning after fasting overnight, and six hours later after eating. The T-cells showed improved functionality after the meal, absorbing fats and sugars more efficiently and demonstrating enhanced energy production in mitochondria.
Further experiments conducted on mice indicated that fed mice generated more memory cells, a specific subset of T-cells that recognize previously encountered pathogens like viruses or bacteria. Once a T-cell identifies a foreign invader, such as a virus or bacterium, it rapidly multiplies to form a defense against the infection, which requires significant energy. Delgoffe highlighted that regardless of the food consumed, post-meal effects on T-cells were consistent, emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet for optimal immune function.
The study also suggests that nutrition may enhance certain cancer treatments, such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T therapies. These therapies modify T-cell receptors to better target cancer cells. Delgoffe and his team observed that CAR T-cells from individuals who had eaten were more effective at combating cancer compared to those from fasting individuals. Russell Jones, a metabolism and nutritional programming expert at Van Andel Institute, emphasized the potential to develop dietary strategies to strengthen the immune system and improve the efficacy of existing cancer treatments.
Jones noted that this research contributes to a better understanding of the intricate relationships between diet, metabolism, and immunity, particularly in the context of cancer. The key takeaway is the significance of maintaining a balanced diet for overall health, whether facing a common cold or battling cancer.
