Could Vitamin D Be The Glimmer Of Hope We Need?

When Fox News published an article by American physician Thomas R. Frieden said: There is no evidence yet that vitamin D will reduce our chances of getting sick. But hope remains, and taking vitamin D supplements can do no harm.

The Power of Vitamin D3

Vitamin D is fat-soluble and often referred to as a key nutrient for healthy bones because it enhances calcium absorption. However, this vitamin has a much greater effectiveness.

The body contains vitamin D receptors in many organs, which is why scientists predict that the vitamin has a larger and more complex role than was previously known.

Laboratory studies show that vitamin D helps control inflammation. In his article, Thomas R. Frieden states that supplementing with vitamin D reduces the risk of respiratory infections and may reduce the risk of viruses such as influenza.

Vitamin D also regulates the production of cytokines that have a negative effect on other cells. Therefore, science wants to explore the possibility of reducing the possibility of infection by increasing vitamin D levels.

The Importance of Sunlight, Vitamin D Foods and Supplements

Because living creatures synthesize vitamin D with the help of the sun's ultraviolet rays, they also call it "a solar vitamin." There are two types of vitamin D - D2 and D3.

The first form is produced by plants (and mushrooms), the second by animals - as well as humans.

Those who consume meat and animal products automatically get some vitamin D from food. However, vegetarians must rely on their own produce with exposure to sunlight to provide adequate amounts.

Statistics show that vitamin D deficiency is common in all populations and around the world. This is more common in people who:

  • They work in closed places

  • They are not exposed to the sun

  • They have dark skin

  • Eat few foods rich in vitamin D

It is estimated that one billion people worldwide have insufficient levels of vitamin D in their blood. Although it appears from studies that there should not be a deficiency in vitamin D, but as we mentioned there are reasons.

Therefore, we must bear in mind that adding vitamin D3 in our daily meals is one of the priorities of a healthy lifestyle.

Foods Rich in Vitamin D

  • Oily fish

  • Beef liver

  • Yolk

  • Foods fortified with vitamin D (such as some chips, milk, orange juice, etc.)

How to Get The Most From Sun exposure

  • Sun exposure 30 minutes every day

  • Choose noon (when the sun is higher in the sky and stronger)

  • Sunscreens and thicker clothing protect against UV rays and can reduce vitamin D synthesis - but that doesn't mean excessive sun exposure is advisable, sunscreen is a must.

What to Look For In a Vitamin D Supplement

  • Recommended daily dose: 15 mcg

  • Increase the amount only when necessary: 50 mcg (2000 IU)