Vitamin D cuts colds and flu in half

Posted on Sun, 23 Sep 12

A study in kids has shown that even a low dose of vitamin D has a strong protective effect against wintertime colds and flu.

The new study included 247 children who were all subsequently found to have vitamin D deficiency. The kids then either received 300 IU of vitamin D (in fortified milk), or milk without vitamin D for several weeks through January to March.

Vitamin D cut the incidence of upper respiratory tract infection by 48% and raised their blood vitamin D levels although they were still in the deficient range.

To maintain vitamin D levels though winter it is recommended children take 1000 IU and adults at least 2000 IU daily.  Find out more here.

Reference:

Camargo CA, et al. Randomized Trial of Vitamin D Supplementation and Risk of Acute Respiratory Infection in Mongolia. Pediatrics Vol. 130 No. 3 September 1, 2012; pp. e561 -e567.