* Correspondence: Departments of Surgery and Intensive Care, Guy's Hospital, London SE1 9RT. Email: Angela.Gates@gstt.sthames.nhs.uk

Abstract: Suggestions that modifications to the diet may have a beneficial effect on health are not new. Recent work demonstrates that nutritional supplements may effect immune function. This review examines the evidence for the effects of these supplements including arginine, glutamine, nucleotides and omega - 3 fatty acids. In particular, clinical trials with patients in multiple organ failure are discussed. The evidence published thus far suggests that immunonutrition, if absorbed in adequate amounts both pre- and post-operatively, reduces septic complications and improves surrogate measures of outcome, including length of stay and requirements for mechanical ventilation. Journ. of Nutr. Health & Aging 2000; 4 (2): 120-123

Key words: dietary supplements, immunonutrition