We explored the connection between vitamin D levels and upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) among military recruits during their training. This observation spanned across different seasons and included over 1,600 recruits. Our aim was to understand how achieving sufficient vitamin D levels could potentially impact the frequency and severity of colds among physically active individuals.
In an additional phase of the research, we conducted a randomized controlled trial with 250 male recruits. They received either a placebo, simulated sunlight exposure, or oral vitamin D3 supplements during winter. This comparison allowed us to see if these methods effectively increased vitamin D levels to a sufficient status of 25(OH)D at 50 nmol/L or higher.
Notably, our findings showed that only 21% of recruits had adequate vitamin D during winter, yet those who did were 40% less likely to suffer from URTIs. Furthermore, both vitamin D supplementation strategies similarly helped nearly all participants achieve sufficient levels. Vitamin D supplementation notably reduced the severity of URTI symptoms by 15% and the number of days with URTIs by 36% compared to placebo.
While the supplementation strategies did not significantly alter other immune factors, such as salivary secretory immunoglobulin A, the overall reduction in respiratory infections indicates a beneficial effect of maintaining vitamin D sufficiency during military training.
Read More
8
Vitamin D3 aids cold recovery
Intake of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 Reduces Duration and Severity of Upper Respiratory Tract Infection: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Group Comparison Study.
We explored how 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25OHD), a form of vitamin D, influences upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), commonly known as colds. In a carefully designed clinical study, we followed 428 participants aged 45 to 74 over a 16-week period. They were randomly assigned to receive either 10 μg of 25OHD daily or a placebo, all while maintaining a double-blind setup to ensure accurate results.
Our findings revealed that those who took 25OHD had reduced duration and severity of their cold symptoms. Participants reported improvements in their overall quality of life during the bouts of URTI. By tracking the health of the participants through surveys designed to measure cold symptoms, we gathered valuable data that indicates vitamin D3 could play a helpful role in managing colds.
This suggests that incorporating vitamin D3 into our diets may be beneficial when we catch a cold, potentially leading to a quicker recovery. It’s a promising avenue for anyone looking to ease the discomfort and duration of these frustrating infections.
Read More
7
Vitamin D's limited cold impact
High-dose oral vitamin D supplementation for prevention of infections in children aged 0 to 59 months: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
We evaluated the impact of high-dose vitamin D supplementation, specifically doses exceeding the standard 400 IU, on preventing colds and other infections in children under five years of age. Our analysis included seven studies, involving a total of 5,748 children, which looked into how effective vitamin D might be in reducing the incidence of upper respiratory tract infections.
Interestingly, while our findings showed no significant benefit of high-dose vitamin D on the prevention of upper respiratory tract infections as a whole, we did observe a noteworthy reduction in specific illness occurrences. We noted a 57% reduction in colds, a 56% reduction in coughs, and a 59% decrease in fever rates with daily doses exceeding 1,000 IU.
However, we must approach these findings with caution, as the evidence supporting the reduction in cough and fever was of lower certainty. No significant effects were observed regarding other conditions such as bronchitis or otitis media. Overall, while high-dose vitamin D may help with colds specifically, further research is needed to solidify these conclusions.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
No colds experienced
This is my child's favourite D3 variant: strawberry flavour in a small, easy-to-chew tablet. I've purchased it multiple times and will continue to do so. When taken daily through fall, winter and spring, in addition to multivitamins, it yields excellent results - I can't recall the last time my child had a cold.
Read More
7.5
Cold prevention method
Product review Effervescent vitamins Swiss Energy Kids №20. My 7-year-old grandson and I have been using these for the second year during the autumn-winter months. They help prevent colds, and if one occurs, we manage to handle it quickly. I believe these vitamins are effective.
Read More
6
Effective against cold
1 people found this helpful
Liked Good vitamin D3. It has a pleasant taste, and my child enjoys taking it. We use it at the first sign of a cold, together with zinc and vitamin C.
We explored the connection between vitamin D levels and upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) among military recruits during their training. This observation spanned across different seasons and included over 1,600 recruits. Our aim was to understand how achieving sufficient vitamin D levels could potentially impact the frequency and severity of colds among physically active individuals.
In an additional phase of the research, we conducted a randomized controlled trial with 250 male recruits. They received either a placebo, simulated sunlight exposure, or oral vitamin D3 supplements during winter. This comparison allowed us to see if these methods effectively increased vitamin D levels to a sufficient status of 25(OH)D at 50 nmol/L or higher.
Notably, our findings showed that only 21% of recruits had adequate vitamin D during winter, yet those who did were 40% less likely to suffer from URTIs. Furthermore, both vitamin D supplementation strategies similarly helped nearly all participants achieve sufficient levels. Vitamin D supplementation notably reduced the severity of URTI symptoms by 15% and the number of days with URTIs by 36% compared to placebo.
While the supplementation strategies did not significantly alter other immune factors, such as salivary secretory immunoglobulin A, the overall reduction in respiratory infections indicates a beneficial effect of maintaining vitamin D sufficiency during military training.
Read More
8
Vitamin D3 aids cold recovery
Intake of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 Reduces Duration and Severity of Upper Respiratory Tract Infection: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Group Comparison Study.
We explored how 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25OHD), a form of vitamin D, influences upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), commonly known as colds. In a carefully designed clinical study, we followed 428 participants aged 45 to 74 over a 16-week period. They were randomly assigned to receive either 10 μg of 25OHD daily or a placebo, all while maintaining a double-blind setup to ensure accurate results.
Our findings revealed that those who took 25OHD had reduced duration and severity of their cold symptoms. Participants reported improvements in their overall quality of life during the bouts of URTI. By tracking the health of the participants through surveys designed to measure cold symptoms, we gathered valuable data that indicates vitamin D3 could play a helpful role in managing colds.
This suggests that incorporating vitamin D3 into our diets may be beneficial when we catch a cold, potentially leading to a quicker recovery. It’s a promising avenue for anyone looking to ease the discomfort and duration of these frustrating infections.
Read More
7
Vitamin D's limited cold impact
High-dose oral vitamin D supplementation for prevention of infections in children aged 0 to 59 months: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
We evaluated the impact of high-dose vitamin D supplementation, specifically doses exceeding the standard 400 IU, on preventing colds and other infections in children under five years of age. Our analysis included seven studies, involving a total of 5,748 children, which looked into how effective vitamin D might be in reducing the incidence of upper respiratory tract infections.
Interestingly, while our findings showed no significant benefit of high-dose vitamin D on the prevention of upper respiratory tract infections as a whole, we did observe a noteworthy reduction in specific illness occurrences. We noted a 57% reduction in colds, a 56% reduction in coughs, and a 59% decrease in fever rates with daily doses exceeding 1,000 IU.
However, we must approach these findings with caution, as the evidence supporting the reduction in cough and fever was of lower certainty. No significant effects were observed regarding other conditions such as bronchitis or otitis media. Overall, while high-dose vitamin D may help with colds specifically, further research is needed to solidify these conclusions.
Read More
7
Vitamin D's role in Raynaud management
Serum vitamin B12 and D levels in children with Primary Raynaud Phenomenon: a retrospective cohort study.
We explored the impact of vitamin D and B12 deficiencies in children experiencing primary Raynaud phenomenon (RP), which causes temporary blood flow changes often triggered by cold or stress. Our study aimed to identify how common these vitamin deficiencies are in pediatric patients and whether they influenced the severity of Raynaud symptoms.
Out of 40 young participants, a significant portion—41.5% for vitamin B12 and 39% for vitamin D—showed low serum levels of these vitamins. After providing supplementation, we observed improved symptoms in many cases, particularly through warming techniques. However, it's important to note that while vasodilator treatment needs were generally unchanged regardless of vitamin B12 levels, those who had vitamin D deficiencies and subsequently received vitamin D treatment required significantly less vasodilator therapy.
Overall, while some positive effects of vitamin D were noted, further research is necessary to conclusively determine its role in managing primary RP symptoms and its effectiveness in combating cold-induced episodes.
Read More
7
Vitamin D reduces cold symptoms
Intake of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D May Reduce the Severity of Upper Respiratory Tract Infection: Post hoc Analysis of a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Group Comparison Study.
We explored the effects of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) on individuals experiencing upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), commonly known as colds. In a well-structured study, participants with low vitamin D levels received either a daily dose of 10 micrograms of 25OHD or a placebo for a span of 16 weeks. The participants' symptoms were assessed using the Wisconsin Upper Respiratory Symptom Survey-21, focusing on how the vitamin impacted their cold symptoms.
Our findings showed that those taking 25OHD reported significant reductions in physical symptoms such as runny noses, sneezing, and head congestion compared to those on the placebo. Additionally, the quality of life scores improved for most symptoms, except for ease of breathing. However, it’s important to note that there was no significant difference in the total number of cold events or how often participants used medications like antibiotics or pain relievers.
Collectively, these results suggest that adequate intake of vitamin D can help ease cold symptoms, particularly those affecting the nose, and might enhance overall well-being when a cold strikes. This indicates that vitamin D may play a positive role in managing the discomfort associated with upper respiratory infections.
This is my child's favourite D3 variant: strawberry flavour in a small, easy-to-chew tablet. I've purchased it multiple times and will continue to do so. When taken daily through fall, winter and spring, in addition to multivitamins, it yields excellent results - I can't recall the last time my child had a cold.
Read More
7.5
Cold prevention method
Product review Effervescent vitamins Swiss Energy Kids №20. My 7-year-old grandson and I have been using these for the second year during the autumn-winter months. They help prevent colds, and if one occurs, we manage to handle it quickly. I believe these vitamins are effective.
Read More
6
Effective against cold
1 people found this helpful
Liked Good vitamin D3. It has a pleasant taste, and my child enjoys taking it. We use it at the first sign of a cold, together with zinc and vitamin C.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Cold is a term that refers to a state of low temperature, often associated with a perceptibly chilly environment or the sensation of being cool to the touch. Scientifically, cold is relative to the presence and movement of heat, which is a measure of energy within matter. In everyday terms, we experience cold through weather changes, such as during winter months, and it can also be described in the context of specific temperature ranges – for example, temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius) generally signify freezing conditions, which can impact outdoor activities, personal comfort, and various ecological systems.
Moreover, the sensation of cold is not solely dependent on temperature; factors like humidity and wind chill can enhance the feeling of coldness. When discussing cold in terms of human health, prolonged exposure to cold conditions can lead to hypothermia or frostbite if body heat is not effectively maintained. Hence, it's crucial to dress appropriately and take necessary precautions during colder months to prevent adverse effects. Understanding the concept of cold can help individuals better prepare for seasonal changes and ensure their comfort and safety.
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that's essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth, supporting immune system function, and facilitating normal cell growth and development. It plays a crucial role in calcium absorption in the gut, which is vital for bone health. Unlike most vitamins, our bodies can produce Vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, specifically UVB rays, which is why it’s often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin." However, depending on your geographical location, lifestyle, and skin type, getting sufficient Vitamin D from the sun alone can be challenging, particularly during the winter months.
In addition to sunlight, Vitamin D can be obtained from certain foods such as fatty fish (like salmon and mackerel), fish liver oils, and fortified foods like milk and cereals. Some individuals may also consider supplements, especially if they're at risk for deficiency. Insufficient vitamin D levels are linked to various health issues, including rickets in children, osteomalacia in adults, and even an increased risk of chronic diseases. Regularly checking your vitamin D levels and consulting with a healthcare professional can help ensure you're meeting your needs for optimal health.
Vitamin D is often discussed in relation to immune health, and some studies suggest that it may play a role in reducing the risk of upper respiratory infections, including the common cold. Adequate levels of vitamin D might help enhance your immune response, potentially making your body more effective at fighting off infections. However, the evidence is not entirely conclusive, and while some individuals with low vitamin D levels may experience more frequent colds, it's important to consider that other factors also contribute to overall immunity, such as lifestyle and diet.
If you’re considering using vitamin D supplements to prevent or mitigate the effects of a cold, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide tailored advice based on your specific health needs and possible deficiencies. While maintaining sufficient vitamin D levels can be beneficial for your immune system, it should not be seen as a guaranteed solution to avoid catching colds, especially during peak cold and flu seasons.
Based on user reviews, the timeline for seeing results from the cold supplement can vary. Some users report that consistent use during the fall and winter months can help prevent colds altogether. For example, one user noted that while taking the supplement daily, their child rarely experiences cold symptoms (Read Review). Other users described that when they start the supplement at the first sign of a cold, it allows them to manage symptoms quickly, suggesting that initial effects could be felt relatively soon following its use (Read Review).
Additionally, a grandmother shared her experience of using the supplement during the autumn-winter months alongside her grandson, which helped them manage colds effectively. This suggests that while immediate effects can vary, consistent use might lead to better overall results in preventing or shortening cold episodes (Read Review). Therefore, for best outcomes, it's recommended to take the supplement consistently, particularly during high-cold seasons.
The science surrounding the use of Vitamin D supplements for alleviating cold symptoms presents a mix of insights but leans toward potential benefits. Several studies indicate that sufficient Vitamin D levels are linked to a reduced incidence and severity of upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), commonly referred to as colds. For instance, one substantial study involving military recruits found that those with adequate Vitamin D levels were 40% less likely to experience URTIs. Moreover, supplementation with Vitamin D, particularly 25-hydroxyvitamin D3, has shown promise in reducing the severity and duration of cold symptoms. Participants in studies reported improvements in symptoms like runny noses and sneezing, enhancing their overall quality of life during infections [4][6].
However, the overall picture remains somewhat inconclusive. While some research indicates benefits from high doses of Vitamin D, such as reductions in colds and related symptoms, other studies found no significant advantages from supplementation at standard doses. This variability in findings may stem from differences in study designs, supplementation protocols, and the specific populations examined. As such, while there is some scientific support for Vitamin D's role in managing cold symptoms, further research is necessary to solidify these conclusions and determine optimal dosing strategies [1][2].
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported notable improvements in symptoms related to colds when using the supplement regularly. For instance, one parent highlighted that after administering the supplement daily to their child during the fall, winter, and spring, they couldn't remember the last time their child experienced a cold (Read Review). Another user shared that using the supplement with their grandson particularly during autumn and winter has proven effective in not only preventing colds but also in managing them quickly when they do occur (Read Review).
Additionally, some users have noted that taking the supplement at the first sign of cold symptoms seems to help in addressing issues promptly. A user reported combining the vitamin D3 with zinc and vitamin C when symptoms commence, suggesting a proactive approach to managing cold symptoms for even faster relief (Read Review). These collective experiences reflect an encouraging trend toward symptom improvement with consistent use, although it's important to keep in mind that individual results can vary.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported positive outcomes when combining the supplement with other vitamins like zinc and vitamin C to handle cold symptoms. One user noted that upon noticing the first signs of a cold, they would use the vitamin D3 alongside these additional supplements, which seemed to aid in providing faster relief from symptoms (Read Review). This proactive approach appears to resonate well with users looking to tackle cold symptoms promptly.
Moreover, users have highlighted the effectiveness of the supplement when taken consistently over the colder months, particularly when coupled with multivitamins. One parent reported that their child hasn't experienced a cold in a long time due to the consistent intake of vitamin D3 during the fall, winter, and spring seasons, supplemented with other vitamins (Read Review). This suggests that while the supplement works well on its own, users find enhanced benefits when integrating it with a comprehensive regimen of other vitamins, particularly during high-cold seasons.
Recent studies have investigated the role of vitamin D in treating cold symptoms, yielding some encouraging insights. For instance, one study noted that children who took 800 IU of vitamin D daily for three months experienced fewer mild respiratory symptoms and enjoyed a quicker recovery during cold episodes [1]. Another research highlighted that higher daily doses, exceeding 1,000 IU, were associated with a significant reduction in respiratory infections, specifically demonstrating a 57% decrease in colds among participants [2].
Furthermore, a review of various studies found that participants receiving daily supplementation of 10 μg (approximately 400 IU) of vitamin D3 reported reduced severity of cold symptoms, such as runny noses and sneezing, reflecting overall improved quality of life during upper respiratory tract infections [6]. Although there isn't a universally accepted optimal dose for vitamin D specifically targeting colds, evidence suggests that doses around 800 to 1,000 IU daily may provide beneficial effects, particularly in reducing symptoms and enhancing recovery times for both children and adults alike. As always, consider consulting with a healthcare professional before making any changes to vitamin supplementation.
9
No colds experienced
This is my child's favourite D3 variant: strawberry flavour in a small, easy-to-chew tablet. I've purchased it multiple times and will continue to do so. When taken daily through fall, winter and spring, in addition to multivitamins, it yields excellent results - I can't recall the last time my child had a cold.
6
Effective against cold
1 people found this helpful
Liked Good vitamin D3. It has a pleasant taste, and my child enjoys taking it. We use it at the first sign of a cold, together with zinc and vitamin C.
7.5
Cold prevention method
Product review Effervescent vitamins Swiss Energy Kids №20. My 7-year-old grandson and I have been using these for the second year during the autumn-winter months. They help prevent colds, and if one occurs, we manage to handle it quickly. I believe these vitamins are effective.
8
Vitamin D reduces cold severity
Influence of Vitamin D Supplementation by Simulated Sunlight or Oral D3 on Respiratory Infection during Military Training.
We explored the connection between vitamin D levels and upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) among military recruits during their training. This observation spanned across different seasons and included over 1,600 recruits. Our aim was to understand how achieving sufficient vitamin D levels could potentially impact the frequency and severity of colds among physically active individuals.
In an additional phase of the research, we conducted a randomized controlled trial with 250 male recruits. They received either a placebo, simulated sunlight exposure, or oral vitamin D3 supplements during winter. This comparison allowed us to see if these methods effectively increased vitamin D levels to a sufficient status of 25(OH)D at 50 nmol/L or higher.
Notably, our findings showed that only 21% of recruits had adequate vitamin D during winter, yet those who did were 40% less likely to suffer from URTIs. Furthermore, both vitamin D supplementation strategies similarly helped nearly all participants achieve sufficient levels. Vitamin D supplementation notably reduced the severity of URTI symptoms by 15% and the number of days with URTIs by 36% compared to placebo.
While the supplementation strategies did not significantly alter other immune factors, such as salivary secretory immunoglobulin A, the overall reduction in respiratory infections indicates a beneficial effect of maintaining vitamin D sufficiency during military training.
8
Vitamin D3 aids cold recovery
Intake of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 Reduces Duration and Severity of Upper Respiratory Tract Infection: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Group Comparison Study.
We explored how 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25OHD), a form of vitamin D, influences upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), commonly known as colds. In a carefully designed clinical study, we followed 428 participants aged 45 to 74 over a 16-week period. They were randomly assigned to receive either 10 μg of 25OHD daily or a placebo, all while maintaining a double-blind setup to ensure accurate results.
Our findings revealed that those who took 25OHD had reduced duration and severity of their cold symptoms. Participants reported improvements in their overall quality of life during the bouts of URTI. By tracking the health of the participants through surveys designed to measure cold symptoms, we gathered valuable data that indicates vitamin D3 could play a helpful role in managing colds.
This suggests that incorporating vitamin D3 into our diets may be beneficial when we catch a cold, potentially leading to a quicker recovery. It’s a promising avenue for anyone looking to ease the discomfort and duration of these frustrating infections.
5
Vitamin D and cold symptoms
The Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation on Respiratory Infections in Children under 6 Years Old: A Systematic Review.
We explored the effects of vitamin D supplementation on respiratory infections, particularly colds, in children under six years old. By examining various studies published until February 2023, we observed diverse findings, with some studies reporting benefits while others found no significant advantage. Overall, eight studies were included, with a total of 2,189 children assessed.
While a few studies indicated that low vitamin D levels might be linked to an increased risk of respiratory infections, only one study specifically noted that children who took 800 IU of vitamin D daily for three months experienced fewer mild respiratory symptoms and recovered more quickly. However, a significant number of studies showed no notable differences in the rates or severity of colds when vitamin D supplementation was used.
In essence, the evidence regarding vitamin D's role in preventing or effectively treating colds in young children is still unclear. We did find some indications that certain doses, like 80 IU/kg/day, may help reduce acute respiratory infection risks, but most research highlighted only minor benefits, such as quicker recovery rather than preventing infections. Variability in study design and supplementation protocols contributed to these inconclusive results, highlighting the need for further research.
7
Vitamin D's limited cold impact
High-dose oral vitamin D supplementation for prevention of infections in children aged 0 to 59 months: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
We evaluated the impact of high-dose vitamin D supplementation, specifically doses exceeding the standard 400 IU, on preventing colds and other infections in children under five years of age. Our analysis included seven studies, involving a total of 5,748 children, which looked into how effective vitamin D might be in reducing the incidence of upper respiratory tract infections.
Interestingly, while our findings showed no significant benefit of high-dose vitamin D on the prevention of upper respiratory tract infections as a whole, we did observe a noteworthy reduction in specific illness occurrences. We noted a 57% reduction in colds, a 56% reduction in coughs, and a 59% decrease in fever rates with daily doses exceeding 1,000 IU.
However, we must approach these findings with caution, as the evidence supporting the reduction in cough and fever was of lower certainty. No significant effects were observed regarding other conditions such as bronchitis or otitis media. Overall, while high-dose vitamin D may help with colds specifically, further research is needed to solidify these conclusions.
References
Marusca LM, Reddy G, Blaj M, Prathipati R, Rosca O, et al. The Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation on Respiratory Infections in Children under 6 Years Old: A Systematic Review. Diseases. 2023;11. doi:10.3390/diseases11030104
Carboo JA, Dolman-Macleod RC, Malan L, Lombard MJ. High-dose oral vitamin D supplementation for prevention of infections in children aged 0 to 59 months: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Rev. 2024;82:579. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuad082
Kisla Ekinci RM, Taskin Karacay IE, Celik U. Serum vitamin B12 and D levels in children with Primary Raynaud Phenomenon: a retrospective cohort study. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2022;76:1615. doi:10.1038/s41430-022-01151-0
Harrison SE, Oliver SJ, Kashi DS, Carswell AT, Edwards JP, et al. Influence of Vitamin D Supplementation by Simulated Sunlight or Oral D3 on Respiratory Infection during Military Training. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2021;53:1505. doi:10.1249/MSS.0000000000002604
Shimizu Y, Ito Y, Uotsu N, Yui K. Intake of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D May Reduce the Severity of Upper Respiratory Tract Infection: Post hoc Analysis of a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Group Comparison Study. Nutrients. 2020;12. doi:10.3390/nu12123769
Shimizu Y, Ito Y, Yui K, Egawa K, Orimo H. Intake of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 Reduces Duration and Severity of Upper Respiratory Tract Infection: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Group Comparison Study. J Nutr Health Aging. 2018;22:491. doi:10.1007/s12603-017-0952-x