Could Vitamin D Defeat Coronavirus?

Find out why many people are suddenly talking about Vitamin D

Over the past few weeks, we have seen how the issue of Vitamin D has become a trend on the internet, but why? As it turns out, several groups of researchers from different countries found very interesting data on the relationship between the sickest patients or deaths caused by COVID-19 and Vitamin D deficiency.

However, before you run to the grocery store to buy supplements, cod liver oil, and start taking multiple sunbathes, it's important to be aware that these ongoing studies are still being reviewed and scientific evidence is lacking to ensure that Vitamin D could prevent COVID-19 or make the infection milder. First, be well informed about this and always talk to your treating physician before doing anything.

On the clinicaltrials.gov website, which is a registry of clinical trials run by The National Library of Medicine of the United States at the National Institutes of Health already has at least 8 studies that evaluate the role that Vitamin D plays in the prevention, treatment, or recovery of COVID-19. While this research has found that lower than usual levels of vitamin D can affect the severity of IDOC-19, it is not yet known whether having healthy levels of vitamin D helps prevent it.

Why is Vitamin D important?

Vitamin D plays an essential role in calcium and phosphate balance by supporting the growth and health of bones, teeth, and muscles. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to bone disease in children called Rickets and a similar condition of bone weakness in adults.

Also, Vitamin D strengthens the Immune System. A low level of Vitamin D is also associated with increased susceptibility to infectious diseases, particularly those affecting the respiratory tract.

Can Vitamin D stop the Coronavirus?

Since scientific evidence on this subject is still scarce, the most important thing is to keep Vitamin D as part of a healthy lifestyle to ensure a robust Immune System.

Should I take large amounts of Vitamin D?

NO. Although most Vitamin D supplements are generally safe, taking more than the recommended amount per day can be dangerous to long-term health.

The recommended amount is 10 micrograms of vitamin D per day. Sometimes, your doctor may recommend a higher dose if you have a proven vitamin D deficiency.

Usually, many of us get doses of Vitamin D by spending time away from home. Our skin gets it when it is exposed to the sun.

In this time of pandemic that we spend little or no time away from home, it is recommended that we look at taking vitamin D in supplements or by making it present in our diet.

Sources of Vitamin D

Food: It isn't easy to get enough Vitamin D from just one meal. Therefore, eating a well-balanced diet is important for good health and optimal functioning of the immune system. Some foods rich in Vitamin D are:
- Blue and fatty fish (salmon, tuna, sardines)
- Dairy (whole milk, yogurt, cheese, butter)
-Cereals
-Eggs
- Cod liver oil
Sun: While you cannot overdose on Vitamin D from sun exposure, long periods of sun exposure damage your skin, so care must be taken to protect your skin with Sunscreen to avoid sunburn and/or damage.
Supplements: consult your doctor before starting to take them. The ingredient listed on the label of most Vitamin D supplements is D3.

Vitamin D is an essential compound for the Immune System. An adequate level of Vitamin D is crucial for overall health; however, excessive levels can lead to increased blood calcium levels that are harmful to your health. Ask your doctor for more information about Vitamin D and your health in particular.

And remember: Get tested!

Where can I get a test for COVID-19 in Los Cabos? Visit our link to find more information about it.

Why is COVID-19 testing important? COVID-19 testing is an important way to protect your family, your community, and yourself.

It will save lives!

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