Research summary
Our immune systems help regulate inflammation and play a key role in whether we develop chronic diseases. We know that obesity can affect the immune system, promoting chronic inflammation and increasing the risk of infection. But we still know little about the effect of nutrition on our immune systems. Dr. Caroline Richard, Canada Research Chair in Nutritional Immunology, is studying how the metabolic complications of obesity affect the immune system and how its function can be improved through nutrition.
She and her research team are particularly interested in how nutrition can mitigate immune dysfunction in obesity-related chronic diseases, such as diabetes and chronic kidney diseases. They are also studying whether certain foods may reduce the risk of infection in these diseases. Ultimately, the information they uncover will support the development of targeted, personalized approaches to improving the immune system in a variety of health conditions.