Although there is not currently any research suggesting vitamin D supplements decrease the risk of coronavirus infection specifically, we do know that maintaining an adequate blood level of vitamin D can help.

Vitamin D supplements, taken daily in moderate doses, may help to reduce the risk of respiratory infections and viruses such as influenza.

Good, safe, and preventative measures for protecting against respiratory infections

Go Outside and getting proper sun exposure (at least three times a week for about 30 minutes exposing your hands, arms, legs, and face). You can also take a vitamin D supplement.

Vitamin D also encourages serotonin production and release, which can raise our spirits, and affect appetite, mood, and sleep patterns.

The Super Sunshine Vitamin

Vitamin D has been called the “sunshine vitamin” because our body actually uses the UVB rays from the sun to synthesize Vitamin D. This could be part of the reason that some people are affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder during the dreary winter months!

Some of the most apparent benefits of Vitamin D are:

  • encourages the absorption and metabolism of calcium and phosphorous which results in strong bones and teeth
  • beneficial treatment for psoriasis
  • regulates the immune system and enhances immunity all around
  • maintains brain health later in life
  • maintains a healthy body weight
  • reduces the risk of rheumatoid arthritis in women
  • could significantly lower the risk of developing cancer

It is not readily available naturally in foods; Cod liver oil and certain fish are the only substantial food sources for this vitamin, and even fish doesn’t meet the minimum US RDA.

So because we probably don’t spend our days in a bikini on a tropical island, we likely don’t get all the Vitamin D we need from the sun, and for the record, I don’t recall seeing anyone sipping on cod liver oil recently. Our bodies are going to need some help.

Even the Vitamin D in milk (which is added in and not naturally found in cow’s milk) is nowhere near enough for us, nor is it in a form that is easily assimilated by our bodies.

Vitamin D is oil soluble, which means we need to take caution not to take too much. Work with your practitioner or medical professional to check your Vitamin D levels and consider supplementing with the sunshine vitamin.