Scientists reviewed research on how special proteins in food might help our immune system work better. These proteins, called bioactive peptides, are found in everyday foods like eggs, milk, and meat. The review looked at studies showing how these food components could potentially help people with immune system problems. While the research is promising, scientists say we need more studies to understand exactly how much of these foods we should eat and which people would benefit the most.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether special proteins found in common foods can help strengthen our immune system and treat immune-related health problems
  • Who participated: This was a review of many different studies, so it looked at research involving thousands of people across different age groups and health conditions
  • Key finding: Evidence suggests that certain food proteins and their breakdown products (called bioactive peptides) may help improve how our immune system works, though more research is needed to confirm this
  • What it means for you: Eating protein-rich foods like eggs, dairy, fish, and meat might support your immune health, but these foods shouldn’t replace medical treatment for immune disorders. Talk to your doctor before making major diet changes

The Research Details

This was a review article, meaning scientists looked at many different studies that had already been done on this topic. They gathered information from research papers examining how proteins and special peptides (tiny pieces of protein) affect the immune system. The researchers analyzed what previous scientists had discovered and tried to find common patterns and conclusions across all these studies.

Review articles are like summaries that help us understand what we know so far about a topic. Instead of doing their own experiment with people, the scientists read through existing research and organized the findings. This helps doctors and the public understand the current state of knowledge about whether food proteins can really help our immune systems.

This type of review is important because it brings together all the scattered research on this topic into one place. Instead of reading hundreds of different studies, people can read one summary. It helps identify which findings are strong and which need more research. This approach is especially useful for nutrition topics where many small studies exist but we need to see the bigger picture.

Since this is a review article without a specific sample size, its strength depends on the quality of the studies it reviewed. The findings are suggestive rather than definitive. Readers should know that reviews like this are helpful for understanding trends but don’t provide the strongest level of proof. The lack of an abstract makes it harder to quickly assess the scope and conclusions. For the most reliable information, look for studies that directly tested these foods on people with specific immune conditions.

What the Results Show

The review found that proteins and bioactive peptides from food sources appear to have several effects on the immune system. These special protein pieces may help activate immune cells that fight infections and disease. Some research suggests they could reduce inflammation in the body, which is important because too much inflammation can cause health problems.

The studies reviewed showed that these food-based compounds might help in different ways: they could strengthen the barrier in your gut that keeps harmful things out, help your body make antibodies that fight germs, and reduce excessive immune responses that cause problems. However, the researchers noted that the strength of evidence varies depending on which food source and which immune condition was studied.

Additional findings from the reviewed studies suggest that different protein sources may work differently. For example, milk proteins, egg proteins, and fish proteins each showed different effects on immune function. Some studies indicated that fermented foods containing these peptides might be more effective than unfermented versions. The research also suggested that the amount of protein eaten matters—too little and too much may both be less helpful than moderate amounts.

This review builds on earlier research showing that nutrition affects immune health. Previous studies established that vitamins and minerals are important for immunity, and this review extends that knowledge to show that proteins themselves, not just their basic nutrients, may have special immune-boosting properties. The findings fit with what we know about how the gut microbiome (bacteria in your digestive system) affects immunity, since these peptides may feed beneficial bacteria.

This review has several important limitations. First, many of the studies reviewed were done in laboratories or with animals, not with people, so we can’t be sure the results apply to humans eating these foods. Second, the studies varied widely in their methods, making it hard to compare results. Third, most studies looked at small groups of people, so the findings might not apply to everyone. Finally, the review didn’t specify exactly which foods or how much you’d need to eat to see benefits. More human studies are needed to give clear recommendations.

The Bottom Line

Based on this review, eating adequate protein from varied sources (eggs, dairy, fish, poultry, legumes) is likely beneficial for immune health as part of a balanced diet. Confidence level: Moderate. This is a reasonable dietary practice supported by research, but not a proven treatment for immune disorders. Do not use protein foods as a replacement for medical treatment if you have an immune condition.

This research is relevant for people interested in supporting their immune health through nutrition, people with minor immune challenges, and those looking to prevent illness. It’s especially interesting for people who want to optimize their diet. However, people with diagnosed immune disorders should work with their doctor or a registered dietitian before making dietary changes. Those with protein allergies or kidney disease should consult their healthcare provider.

If you increase protein intake, you might notice general improvements in energy and how you feel within a few weeks. However, significant improvements in immune function typically take several weeks to months of consistent dietary changes. Don’t expect dramatic results—this is about supporting your body’s natural defenses, not creating a quick fix.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Track daily protein intake in grams and note which sources you consumed (eggs, dairy, fish, meat, legumes). Aim to log 3-5 different protein sources per week and monitor how you feel (energy levels, frequency of getting sick) over 8-12 weeks
  • Add one new protein source to your diet each week. For example: Week 1 add eggs to breakfast, Week 2 add Greek yogurt as a snack, Week 3 add fish to dinner. Use the app to set reminders and track which new proteins you’ve tried
  • Create a monthly wellness check-in where you rate your energy level, digestive health, and how often you’ve been sick. Compare these ratings month-to-month to see if increased protein variety correlates with feeling better. Also track which protein sources you enjoy most to build sustainable eating habits

This review summarizes research on how food proteins may support immune function, but it is not medical advice. Food proteins are not treatments for immune disorders or diseases. If you have an immune condition, autoimmune disease, or are taking immunosuppressant medications, consult your doctor or registered dietitian before making significant dietary changes. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical guidance. Always speak with a healthcare provider before using food or supplements to treat any health condition.