Prevent Colds and Flu with Vitamin D
If you want to prevent and protect against colds and flu in a recent study shows that vitamin D is important. Here in Barcelona we are lucky to enjoy plenty of sunshine, but for people living in the northern hemisphere, there is a 60% chance of having vitamin D deficiency The only way to really ensure you get enough vitamin D is to get plenty of sun and if you live in northern latitudes the lack of sufficient sunlight makes you should supplement your diet with adequate vitamin D.
In a study conducted in the U.S. earlier this year, people with low vitamin D levels had 40% more likely to have repeated colds and flu compared with people who kept sufficient levels of vitamin D. The study also shows that people with respiratory diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema and asthma, which also had low vitamin D levels had a higher risk of having a common cold and flu. In fact, asthmatic patients with low vitamin D levels were five times more likely to get colds and flu, such as those with higher levels of vitamin D in the blood.
Scientists have discovered that vitamin D is more important than just keeping bones strong and healthy. It is a major player in many aspects of our health, among others, in order to maintain a strong immune system.
Where is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin. Vitamin D is formed in the skin, sun exposure, 15 to 30 minutes a day, covers the daily requirement of this vitamin.
A part of the sun are also vitamin D in foods like oily fish and eggs. There are also small amount of mushrooms, dairy products and fortified margarines.