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Vitamin D May Boost Lung Health

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The benefits of vitamin D are numerous, including enhancement of blood calcium levels and improvement in bone structure, but there is growing evidence in scientific circles that vitamin D may also boost lung health.  With over 300 million people worldwide affected by asthma and other pulmonary disorders, it has become important to determine if there are preventative measures that can be taken to ensure healthy lungs. 

Research presented at the 105th International Conference of the American Thoracic Society disclosed a new method by which vitamin D may slow or possibly stop the development of asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease).   Scientists from the University of Pennsylvania explained how calcitriol (a form of vitamin D) can reduce the growth of “airway smooth muscle,” a problem found in those with COPD and asthma, which results in decreased lung capacity over time.

The lung cells of 12 asthmatic and healthy volunteers were subjected to a potent corticosteroid and calcitriol, both of which are known to help reduce inflammation in the lungs.  The researchers found that the corticosteroid, a commonly used asthma treatment, had very little effect on the growth of “airway smooth muscle.” Conversely, the benefits of vitamin D (calcitriol) on the growth of “airway smooth muscle” were significant.  There is hope within the medical community that vitamin D therapy may be helpful in the management of COPD, based on its promising anti-inflammatory properties.

An article in the February 2009 issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine examined the vitamin D intake of 883 persons, 12 years of age and older, over a period of six years. A correlation was found that people with the lowest intake of vitamin D contracted the most upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs).  As vitamin D intake increased, the incidence of URTIs lessened.  It is worthy to note however, that a recent shorter-in-duration study did not show a change in URTIs with vitamin D supplementation.  More research is needed to help define the best dosage which will provide the most benefits of vitamin D supplements.

Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin often nicknamed the “sunshine vitamin” because it is produced in the body as a result of exposure to sunlight.  Low vitamin D symptoms include chronic fatigue, depression, weight loss, diabetes, stroke, heart disease and osteoporosis.

Sources of Vitamin D

Spending more time in the sun on a regular basis may increase levels in the body, but a lack of vitamin D can still be found among people living in warm climates.   In addition, too much sun can increase your risk for skin cancer, so it is important to use sunscreen after 15 to 20 minutes of exposure.  You can also boost your intake of vitamin D by eating foods like eggs, cod liver oil, salmon and tuna fish, or purchase vitamin D enriched products like milk, orange juice and yogurt.

Vitamin D can also be ingested in the form of a supplement, and dosage recommendations vary depending on age.   People under age 50 should take 5 micrograms per day, those who are 51-70 years need 10 micrograms daily and folks over 70 should take 15 micrograms per day. 

Try IVL’s liquid vitamins and minerals for optimal nutritional support.