Vitamin D can reduce the prevalence and severity of influenza and other upper respiratory tract infections, the results of a new study.

Simple steps, such as consuming foods rich with vitamin D, and getting more light, can help reduce the risk of getting sick with the flu and other similar diseases, the results of a study conducted by American scientists (Yale University School of Medicine and Greenwich Hospital in Connecticut).

"People in the South and the West receive more sun than in the North, which is favorable, since vitamin D is produced from the sun," said Dr. James R. Subbeta (James R. Sabetta) (Yale University School of Medicine and Greenwich Hospital, Conn.

Scientists have observed 198 healthy adult subjects during the fall and winter of 2009-2010 to assess the decline in vitamin D levels in the fall and winter may be a factor in the seasonal increase in the prevalence of respiratory viral infections such as influenza.

The study showed that people who maintained vitamin D levels of 38 ng / mL or higher are less likely to get viral infections such as influenza than subjects with less vitamin D in their blood.

Of the 18 people who maintained this level during the study period, only three became infected with a viral infection.

But 180 other participants with less vitamin D in the blood, 81 (45%), really got sick with viral infections.

Individuals with higher levels of vitamin D also noted a reduction in the number of days of illness.

In addition to getting more sun and consuming milk and foods with vitamin D, the authors recommend an additional intake of vitamin D, especially to people from regions with less sunlight, and to those who spend daytime hours indoors.

The results suggest that an additional intake of vitamin D, aimed at reaching a level of 38 ng / ml in blood or higher, can lead to significant health benefits, reducing the chances of viral respiratory tract infections.

Further studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of vitamin D in the prevention of infections, including influenza.

Researchers conclude that lower levels of vitamin D seen during the winter in temperate climates can contribute to the prevalence of influenza in the colder months.

News. Gradusnik. En.