Can vitamin D deficiency lead to more hospital visits for respiratory issues?

Yes, a University of Surrey study indicated that severe vitamin D deficiency is linked to a higher likelihood of hospital admission for respiratory infections.

What are the benefits of vitamin D according to the University of Surrey study?

The study suggests vitamin D may have antibacterial and antiviral properties that help reduce the risk of respiratory tract infections.

How much more likely are severely vitamin D deficient people to be hospitalized?

People with severe vitamin D deficiency were 33% more likely to be admitted to hospital for a respiratory infection compared to those with optimal levels.

Home / Health / Vitamin D: Your Shield Against Flu?

Vitamin D: Your Shield Against Flu?

21 Jan

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Summary

Low vitamin D levels increase hospital admission risk for respiratory infections.
Severe deficiency raises hospital risk by 33% compared to optimal levels.
Vitamin D may have antibacterial and antiviral properties, aiding immunity.

Emerging research indicates that sufficient vitamin D may offer protection against flu and other respiratory illnesses. A comprehensive study involving 36,000 UK adults revealed a significant correlation between low vitamin D levels and increased hospital admissions for respiratory infections.

Those classified as severely deficient in vitamin D were found to be 33% more likely to be hospitalized with conditions such as pneumonia and bronchitis. The research, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, suggests that for every 10nmol/L increase in blood vitamin D concentration, hospital admissions for respiratory illnesses decreased by 4%.

Experts highlighted that vitamin D possesses antibacterial and antiviral properties beneficial for reducing respiratory tract infections. Despite its crucial role in bone health and overall well-being, a substantial portion of the UK population has suboptimal vitamin D levels, particularly during winter months. This deficiency poses a considerable public health challenge, as respiratory infections can lead to severe illness and strain healthcare systems.