New Study: Vitamin D Protects Against Flu and Reduces Hospitalization Risk
Researchers found that vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of respiratory infections requiring hospitalization, while supplements help boost immunity and protection.
A recent study revealed that maintaining adequate vitamin D levels can significantly reduce the risk of influenza and severe respiratory infections. Researchers found that individuals with severe vitamin D deficiency were 33% more likely to be hospitalized compared to those with sufficient levels.
Vitamin D is essential for regulating calcium and phosphate, supporting bone and muscle health, and it also possesses antiviral properties that may help mitigate respiratory infections.
Scientists from the Universities of Surrey, Oxford, and Reading analyzed data from 36,000 British adults and discovered that very low vitamin D levels—below 15 nmol/L—were associated with a higher risk of hospitalization due to respiratory illnesses. Optimal levels above 75 nmol/L were linked to significantly lower risk.
The study indicated that each 10 nmol/L increase in vitamin D reduces the risk of hospitalization by 4%. Daily supplementation of 10 micrograms during autumn and winter is especially recommended for older adults, at-risk populations, and ethnic minorities prone to deficiency.
Vitamin D can also be obtained from foods such as fatty fish, red meat, egg yolks, and fortified cereals.
Lead author Dr. Abby Borno from the University of Surrey emphasized that regular intake of vitamin D in winter months supports immunity and lowers the risk of severe respiratory infections.
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