If you are following along with our blog, readers will know that Pria recently published a post detailing all the different ways one’s immune system could be boosted with some key nutrients. Probiotics, zinc, omega-3s and more are all essential for keeping our bodies healthy and for fighting off disease, but one of the vitamins mentioned in that post, vitamin D, may be more important now than ever. Research published in May from the University of Chicago demonstrates that a deficiency in vitamin D may result in an increased risk of contracting COVID-19.

Before discussing the implications of the study, why does the human body require vitamin D to begin with? Vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin plays an essential role in our health. Vitamin D is important for absorbing calcium and promoting healthy bone growth, aides in maintaining balance, improving lung function, improving mood, reducing the risk of cancer, protecting against heart disease, and so much more. Generally, a serious lack of vitamin D can result in a host of medical issues later in life. Getting enough vitamin D is paramount for anyone!

Regarding the correlation between coronavirus and Vitamin D, the study observed individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 and proceeded to analyze patients’ vitamin D level in the year before testing. For those who tested positive, a deficiency in vitamin D was found in 25% of patients. The study “provides the first direct evidence of the association of vitamin D deficiency and potentially insufficient treatment with testing positive with COVID-19.” Not only does this connect to the potential treatment of those suffering from coronavirus, but also demonstrates a way in which it might be prevented in the first place.

After reading this, you may be wondering where exactly one can find vitamin D in their diets? Foods such as fish, mushrooms, fortified milks, cereal, and oatmeal all contain vitamin D. Also, plenty of sunshine helps fill the body with this vitamin – about 15 minutes to the face, arms, and hands at least twice a week without sunscreen. However, if you are truly concerned or someone at risk, you may want to consider supplementing with a daily dose of vitamin D. Through Pria Wellness, you can order this and any other supplements you may require in order to keep your body in fighting shape. Reach out to talk to one of our experts online or by calling 410-565-6652 today!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Information in blog post sourced from: David Meltzer MD, PhD, Fanny L. Pritzker Professor of Medicine, The University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland MC 5000, Chicago, IL 60637

Image sourced from Vector Stock