The Role of Vitamin D in Boosting Immunity Against Cold and Flu

Friends, did you know that studies suggest that those with higher levels of Vitamin D are less susceptible to colds and cases of flu? A recent study of 2022 conducted in Israel also shows that individuals with sufficient levels of Vitamin D did not acquire Covid 19 and or their symptoms were not as severe, even escaping mortality, as opposed to those whose Vitamin D levels were deficient. It showed that those deficient were 14 times more likely to have severe or mortal Covid 19 than those with higher levels.

You say, Wait! Isn't Vitamin D just for bone and joint health? Surprise, Surprise, Vitamin D is an immune system booster and quite powerful in its effectiveness in keeping colds and flu away. There are 2 kinds of Vitamin D: D2, which is plant-derived (food we eat), and D3, which is the body's natural form produced by exposure to sunlight.

The Bottom line is that 1in 4 are deficient in Vitamin D and do not know it. Symptoms such as: getting sick more often, such as with colds, fatigue, bone and joint pain hair loss, and mood changes to name a few. A simple blood test from your health provider can confirm if you need more Vitamin D.

We do not spend as much time outdoors in the sun as once before. We sit at desks and spend most of our days indoors with little sun exposure. Even children spend less time outdoors playing than my age group that grew up in the 1980's. I grew up in the era of when the porch light came on. then you come home". On average, we spend 7% of our time outside. Doctors are now prescribing "nature time" because of its effects on stress, heart, and overall health.

Get outside, Go for a short walk three times a week, and get a dog if you have to. Our Beagle, Kingston ensures we don't miss a walk; he is a great built-in "accountability partner". Naturally, work to Increase those Vitamin D stores. It could very well impact you in dodging the cold and flu months upon us. As always, contact your health provider if you are concerned that your Vitamin D levels might be low.

Stay well friends. 3 John:2.

Reach out and let me know how you are doing @ medwellrn@outlook.com. Subscribe to the blog to avoid missing another riveting health tip from MedwellRN.

https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0263069#sec014

*This blog is for educational and inspirational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose, treat, or mitigate disease. Seek your health provider if you need medical advice.