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
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 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.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Enjoyable and effective
These vitamin D3 chewable tablets in strawberry flavour are of very high quality. During the cold season, children can safely take a dosage of 1000 IU, and they love the strawberry taste. I highly recommend purchasing them. Thank you, iHerb, for this wonderful product.
Read More
9
Immunity success
I bought these for my child’s immunity during the cold season – and the wonderful news is they didn’t get sick at all! They enjoyed the tasty vitamins, which carry a delightful aroma of berries and fruits.
Read More
7.5
Prevents colds
Excellent! These vitamins are fantastic for prevention during the cold season, and I am very satisfied.
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
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.
Read More
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.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 4 Reviews
8.4
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
9
Enjoyable and effective
These vitamin D3 chewable tablets in strawberry flavour are of very high quality. During the cold season, children can safely take a dosage of 1000 IU, and they love the strawberry taste. I highly recommend purchasing them. Thank you, iHerb, for this wonderful product.
Read More
9
Immunity success
I bought these for my child’s immunity during the cold season – and the wonderful news is they didn’t get sick at all! They enjoyed the tasty vitamins, which carry a delightful aroma of berries and fruits.
Read More
7.5
Prevents colds
Excellent! These vitamins are fantastic for prevention during the cold season, and I am very satisfied.
Read More
7.5
Vital for family
Perfect! I ordered these for the entire family, which is essential during the cold season, especially for children.
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.
Vitamin D can play a role in immune function, and some studies suggest that adequate levels may help reduce the severity and duration of colds. However, the time it takes to notice results can vary widely among individuals. Typically, if you are deficient in Vitamin D, you might start to feel improvements in your overall wellbeing within a few weeks of supplementation, though it may take longer for the immune benefits to manifest.
If you're taking Vitamin D specifically to help with a current cold, it’s important to understand that while it can potentially support your immune system, it may not provide immediate relief from symptoms. Most people notice a gradual improvement in their general health as their Vitamin D levels normalize, rather than a rapid turnaround in cold symptoms. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and recommendations regarding supplementation.
Vitamin D supplementation has shown mixed results in supporting the prevention and treatment of colds. While some studies suggest that adequate vitamin D levels may play a role in reducing the frequency and severity of upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), the overall evidence remains inconclusive. For instance, a study indicated that daily doses of 800 IU of vitamin D might lead to quicker recovery from mild respiratory symptoms in children, although many others showed no significant impacts on cold incidence or severity [1].
Interestingly, higher doses of vitamin D have demonstrated more promising results, with one analysis noting a 57% reduction in colds among children receiving over 1,000 IU daily [2]. Furthermore, another study highlighted that individuals with sufficient vitamin D levels were less likely to suffer from URTIs and experienced milder symptoms [4]. Overall, while some evidence supports the role of vitamin D in alleviating cold symptoms, more comprehensive research is needed to establish definitive conclusions regarding its effectiveness in preventing colds.[5]
Based on user reviews, many customers report significant improvements in their children's immunity during the cold season after using these vitamin D3 chewable tablets. One user emphasized that their child did not get sick at all while taking the vitamins, attributing this success to the product's formulation and taste Read Review. Another review echoes similar sentiments, highlighting the product's effectiveness as a preventive measure against illnesses during colder months Read Review.
In addition to these health benefits, the pleasant strawberry flavor appears to make the vitamins enjoyable for children, encouraging regular consumption. Several reviewers express satisfaction not only with the quality of the product but also with its appeal to younger users, which can be crucial for adherence to supplementation Read Review. While individual results may vary, the consensus among those who shared their experiences leans heavily toward a positive impact on immunity and overall satisfaction with the product.
Research indicates that vitamin D might have a role in alleviating cold symptoms, particularly when administered at specific dosages. One noteworthy study highlighted that children who received a daily dose of 800 IU of vitamin D for three months experienced fewer mild respiratory symptoms and a quicker recovery from colds [1]. In another analysis focusing on high-dose vitamin D of over 1,000 IU daily, participants showed significant reductions in cold occurrences, with a remarkable 57% decrease in cases [2]. However, the results also emphasized that the evidence surrounding the efficacy of vitamin D for preventing colds remains mixed, with many studies showing limited impact on the severity and frequency of these infections.
For individuals considering vitamin D supplementation, a dose of around 800 IU appears reasonable for those seeking to manage symptoms when a cold strikes. Higher doses, particularly those exceeding 1,000 IU, may offer additional benefits by potentially reducing the incidence of colds and related symptoms [2]. Ultimately, while vitamin D presents some promise in the context of upper respiratory infections, ongoing research is necessary to establish the most effective protocols and to clarify the overall benefits of vitamin D supplementation for cold treatment.
9
Immunity success
I bought these for my child’s immunity during the cold season – and the wonderful news is they didn’t get sick at all! They enjoyed the tasty vitamins, which carry a delightful aroma of berries and fruits.
7.5
Prevents colds
Excellent! These vitamins are fantastic for prevention during the cold season, and I am very satisfied.
9
Enjoyable and effective
These vitamin D3 chewable tablets in strawberry flavour are of very high quality. During the cold season, children can safely take a dosage of 1000 IU, and they love the strawberry taste. I highly recommend purchasing them. Thank you, iHerb, for this wonderful product.
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.
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.
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.
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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 10.3390/nu12123769