Vegan and keto diets have a positive effect on the innate and adaptive types of human immunity. This conclusion was reached by scientists from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in the USA. Results of the study: shared In the journal Nature Medicine.
20 people of different ethnicity, gender, age and weight participated in the research. They were divided into two groups based on the type of diet they had to follow for two weeks. Participants on the vegan diet (characterized by the complete absence of animal products in the diet) consumed approximately 10% fat and 75% carbohydrates. The keto diet meant consuming about 76% fat and 10% carbohydrates.
The researchers collected stool and urine samples from the subjects to further evaluate the body’s biochemical, cellular, metabolic and immune responses and monitor changes in the microbiome.
The results showed that both types of diets were associated with significant changes in the body. Vegan diet affected innate immune system-related mechanisms (including modulation of antiviral responses). A significant improvement in biochemical and cellular processes associated with adaptive immunity was achieved following the keto diet. These include improving the ability of T cells (lymphocytes) to protect the body from cytotoxic damage.
More research is needed to examine exactly how these two types of dietary interventions affect specific components of the immune system. Researchers suggest that increased knowledge will allow nutrition to be used as a strategy to prevent conditions associated with cancer or neurodegenerative disorders.
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