There are studies which show that an underestimated vitamin may have a role to play against COVID-19. Vitamin D may help to increase protection against this new and problematic disease.
Studies show that COVID-19 patients who have deficiencies in vitamin D are more likely to go through serious illness, complications and hence higher chances of death. One particular study showed that those hospitalised with COVID-19 were less likely to be admitted to intensive care when provided with vitamin D supplements.
Although this is still a relatively new disease and doctors together with researchers are still learning about its impacts, there seems to be encouraging evidence that vitamin D can offer some protection from the effects of COVID-19.
So how do you get vitamin D?
One of the easiest ways to acquire vitamin D is through sunlight exposure. If you spend most of your time indoors, you might not be able to produce much of this vitamin. Eating food types that are rich in vitamin D and supplements are other valid options.
Different food types that you can consume include salmon, egg yolks, and mushrooms.
Vitamin D deficiency
People might be vitamin D deficient and considering the lesser emphasis placed on it, most may not be concerned. A blood test would indicate your vitamin D levels. Older people may be vitamin D deficient as the skin might not be able to produce it as well as it did in the prior years. This is coupled with the fact that older citizens may be less inclined to go outdoors.
Excess is not beneficial
As per other vitamins, it is recommended to take the suggested doses on a regular basis. One should avoid excess consumption of vitamin D as this may be counterproductive. Consuming vitamin D in excess can lead to other health problems such as kidney stones, nausea and vomiting. This underscores the importance of not overdoing it.
Considering the encouraging data being gathered, promoting vitamin D as a good to have for the fight against COVID-19, may be a good idea. The UK will be delivering free vitamin D supplements to more than two and a half million people who are classified as vulnerable. Considering that this strategy may prove effective, it can be something that other European countries may ponder.
What do you think? Do you think that vitamin D supplements should be made freely available to those who are vulnerable in Malta? Let us know in the comments section below.
