DEAR FRIENDS,
Vitamin D has many functions, including regulation of calcium and phosphorus in the blood for bone health, regulation of insulin levels and support for diabetes, and support for lungs and cardiovascular disease. It is Vitamin D’s role in immune function that has it in the news today.
Our immune systems are very complex and must be balanced to be healthy.
According to Pharmacy Times
“ If there is too much stimulation, autoimmune diseases can set in. If there is not enough immune system activity, frequent infections can occur. Low levels of vitamin D have been linked with both extremes, and low levels of vitamin D have been associated with worsening autoimmune diseases. Low levels of vitamin D are not the underlying cause of the autoimmune disease, but low levels of vitamin D can make autoimmune disease states worse.
Low levels of vitamin D have also been associated with frequent infections. In 2009, the National Institute of Health warned that low vitamin D levels are associated with frequent colds and influenza.
And so it appears that vitamin D helps keep the immune system balanced much like a gymnast walking on a balance beam. “
New research is coming out daily looking at Vitamin D’s role in protecting us from and lessening symptoms of Covid19.
According to Harvard Medical School
“There is some evidence to suggest that vitamin D might help protect against becoming infected with, and developing serious symptoms of, COVID-19. We know, for example, that people with low vitamin D levels may be more susceptible to upper respiratory tract infections. One meta-analysis found that people who took vitamin D supplements, particularly those who had low vitamin D levels, were less likely to develop acute respiratory tract infections than those who didn't.
Vitamin D may protect against COVID-19 in two ways. First, it may help boost our bodies' natural defense against viruses and bacteria. Second, it may help prevent an exaggerated inflammatory response, which has been shown to contribute to severe illness in some people with COVID-19.”
Here are some other research articles supporting Vitamin D’s benefits for Covid19 prevention and treatment:
So, how do we boost our Vitamin D levels?
Spend some time outdoors. Here is an article that describes how to get the most Vitamin D from sun exposure.
Eat Vitamin D-rich foods:
Cod liver oil
Salmon, mackerel, tuna, trout, sardines
Enriched eggs
Mushrooms
Fortified dairy and non-dairy products
Be sure to talk to your doctor about your Vitamin D levels. A simple blood test is used - there are also some at-home tests your doctor might recommend. If your levels are low, your doctor may recommend a supplement to help boost Vitamin D’s superpowers.
Be inspired,