Scientists Say This Supplement May Protect You From the Flu
Prevention • • health
Key Points:
- New research published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that people with severe vitamin D deficiency have a 33% higher risk of hospitalization for respiratory infections, including severe flu cases, compared to those with adequate levels.
- Vitamin D supports both innate and adaptive immune responses, potentially lowering the risk of severe respiratory infections, though the study was observational and focused on severe deficiencies.
- About 18% of Americans have inadequate vitamin D levels, and deficiency symptoms can be subtle, including fatigue, brain fog, and frequent illness; risk is higher in people with limited sun exposure, vegan diets, or lactose intolerance.
- Experts recommend adults get 600-800 IU of vitamin D daily through sun exposure, diet, or supplements, but caution against excessive intake
