Micronutrient Fortified Cereal and Immune Function in Children
Author Information
Author(s): David C Nieman, Dru A Henson, Wei Sha
Primary Institution: Human Performance Lab, North Carolina Research Campus, Kannapolis, NC, USA
Hypothesis
School-aged children would experience improvements in immune function and a reduction in upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) during two months of supplementation with a fortified breakfast cereal.
Conclusion
Ingestion of breakfast cereal fortified with micronutrients does not significantly influence immune function or URTI rates in healthy children.
Supporting Evidence
- Despite significant increases in nutrient intake, URTI rates did not differ between groups.
- Pre- to post-study changes in immune function measures did not differ significantly.
- The fortified cereal contributed significantly to total nutrient intake.
Takeaway
The study found that eating special cereal with added vitamins didn't help kids get sick less or improve their immune system.
Methodology
73 children aged 7-13 were randomized into three groups receiving different levels of fortified cereal for two months, with immune function measured before and after.
Potential Biases
No significant bias risks were reported.
Limitations
The sample size was considered marginal, and the study may not generalize to all populations.
Participant Demographics
73 children (42 males, 31 females) aged 7 to 13 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.556
Statistical Significance
p=0.556
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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