In a recent study published in “The Journal Nutrient” it is said that people at risk of influenza and/ or COVID 19 should consider taking 10000 IU/day of Vitamin D3 as a loading dose. This will lead to a rapid rise of 25 (OH)D levels. It must be followed by a maintenance dose of 5000 IU/ day. This simply means that the higher dose of Vitamin D3 can do wonders for the patients suffering from COVID-19. Vitamin D mechanism helps reduce microbial infections in the body.
Importance of Vitamin D
- It enhances the ability to reduce the cytokine storm in response to viral & bacterial infections
- Enhances cellular innate immunity partly through induction of antimicrobial peptides
- Saves you from increased risk of pneumonia, sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome, heart failure and much more
In a research published in “The Irish Journal” researchers acclaim supplement of Vitamin D3 with 800-2000 IU/Day. This helps to avoid the deficiency of 25(OH)D levels. The modest target for the same is healthy bones. On the contrary, physicians practicing functional medicine say- an average patient can lead to insufficient 25(OH)D levels with 1000 to 4000 IU/D and they may need 5000-10000 IU/day. They also claim that supplementation of Vitamin D may lead to better resistance or immunity against COVID-19.
Primary supplementary targets are identified as older adults, hospital patients and nursing home residents in a clinical prognosis. Although, this guidance is suggested for other vulnerable group of patients including:
- Diabetes Mellitus
- Compromised immune function, individuals with limited sun exposure
- Dark skin people
- Obese people
- Vegetarians & smokers
The potential exposure to Vitamin D will mitigate the risk of Covid-19 for older adults and others.
TILDA Vitamin D report- preventing Covid-19 with Vitamin D3
A report in April 2020 by trinity college Dublin Ireland describes that vitamin D plays vital role in preventing respiratory infection, boosts immune system response for infection and reduces the need/ use of antibiotic.
Researchers particularly report high vitamin D deficiency in obese or those with pre-existing lung conditions. In both scenarios, a person is vulnerable to COVID 19 infection and severe complications from the virus. Researchers said “Our people aged 70 and over are the fabric of society and it is required to use all available tools to ensure the reduction and transmission of COVD-19. Vitamin D is a potent immune modifying micronutrient and if vitamin D status is enough, it could benefit vulnerable adults. Especially those above 70 years of age and older who are ‘cocooning’ during the COVID-19 outbreak.” There are tremendous studies and research support to the fact that Vitamin D is vital for or immune system specifically during the time of COVID-19 epidemic.
At Texas Medical & Wellness Clinic, we offer Covid-19 Testing. Call (361) 551-2288 for details.