Can Vitamin D protect against Respiratory infections ?

The answer is yes, according a paper published in the BMJ ( British Medical Journal) in the recent past.

With Corona Virus ( COVID 19) pandemic raging in Europe and USA, there is lot of interest in treatment and naturally prevention of Respiratory tract infections.

It is also understandable why a paper published in Feb 2017 is one the most read BMJ paper in March 2020.

The paper analysed data from “25 eligible randomised controlled trials involving a total of 11 321 participants”.

The study concludes ” Vitamin D supplementation was safe and it protected against acute respiratory tract infection overall. Patients who were very vitamin D deficient and those not receiving bolus doses experienced the most benefit.”

References

Vitamin D supplementation to prevent acute respiratory tract infections: systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data

BMJ 2017; 356 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.i6583 (Published 15 February 2017)

Cite this as: BMJ 2017;356:i6583

Disclaimer: Please note- This blog is NOT medical advice. This blog is purely for information only. See your own doctor to discuss concerns and options relevant for you.