Overview

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 5 Researches
6.8
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 12 Reviews
8.3
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Veg Capsule
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Vitamin D2 (as Ergocalciferol)
25 mcg (1,000 IU)
125%

Top Medical Research Studies

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's limited cold impact
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.
7
Vitamin D reduces cold symptoms
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.

Most Useful Reviews

10
No colds for years
1 people found this helpful
I order this dosage for summer; for the rest of the year, I take 2000 IU from the same manufacturer. The most important effect is that my whole family hasn't caught a cold for two years, and the usual crowned illness passed without symptoms. I've consistently maintained our vitamin levels.
9.5
Avoided flu
After learning about the benefits of vitamin D therapy on the immune system, I began taking it. With many sick classmates at school, my immune system weakened, so I increased my vitamin D intake during these sick times and avoided about 95% of the flu and colds around me.
9
Improves flu symptoms
Excellent dosage of vitamin D! I take it when I have the flu and feel better. I love this company and often order for myself and loved ones. A great replacement for sunlight during the cold season with convenient packaging. The effect of these vitamins is truly pleasing.

Medical Researches

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 5 Researches
6.8
  • All Researches
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's limited cold impact
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.
7
Vitamin D's role in Raynaud management
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.
7
Vitamin D reduces cold symptoms
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.
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.

User Reviews

USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 12 Reviews
8.3
  • All Reviews
  • Positive Reviews
  • Negative Reviews
10
No colds for years
1 people found this helpful
I order this dosage for summer; for the rest of the year, I take 2000 IU from the same manufacturer. The most important effect is that my whole family hasn't caught a cold for two years, and the usual crowned illness passed without symptoms. I've consistently maintained our vitamin levels.
9.5
Avoided flu
After learning about the benefits of vitamin D therapy on the immune system, I began taking it. With many sick classmates at school, my immune system weakened, so I increased my vitamin D intake during these sick times and avoided about 95% of the flu and colds around me.
9
Improves flu symptoms
Excellent dosage of vitamin D! I take it when I have the flu and feel better. I love this company and often order for myself and loved ones. A great replacement for sunlight during the cold season with convenient packaging. The effect of these vitamins is truly pleasing.
9
Supports cold treatment
Excellent! I ordered this dosage for my wife, as her test results indicated it’s essential to maintain the level. We typically reduce the dosage during summer, but when autumn arrives or we experience the first signs of a cold, we promptly increase to larger doses. In winter, we maintain a permanent dosage of 5, and during illness, we take 10-15 for a week.
7.5
Prevents seasonal colds
1 people found this helpful
I began taking NOW Foods Vegetarian Vitamin D a few months ago and wanted to share my experience. The package includes 120 vegetarian capsules, making it convenient for long-term use. I take one capsule daily, so it lasts for four months, offering great value. Since starting this vitamin D, I've noticed an improvement in my overall health. I had issues with my vitamin D levels, and the supplement effectively restored them. I feel more energetic and less susceptible to seasonal colds. The capsules are small and easy to swallow, and I take them with food for better absorption without experiencing side effects. I appreciate that it's vegetarian and free from artificial additives. NOW Foods is a reliable manufacturer, and I trust their product quality. I'm very pleased with the results and recommend it to anyone seeking a quality source of Vitamin D!

Frequently Asked Questions

7.5
Prevents illness
1 people found this helpful
At the first sign of a cold, I drink it with zinc. Great for preventing me from getting sick.
7.5
Fewer colds
I've been taking it for quite some time now and find I catch colds less often.
10
No colds for years
1 people found this helpful
I order this dosage for summer; for the rest of the year, I take 2000 IU from the same manufacturer. The most important effect is that my whole family hasn't caught a cold for two years, and the usual crowned illness passed without symptoms. I've consistently maintained our vitamin levels.
9.5
Avoided flu
After learning about the benefits of vitamin D therapy on the immune system, I began taking it. With many sick classmates at school, my immune system weakened, so I increased my vitamin D intake during these sick times and avoided about 95% of the flu and colds around me.
7.5
Prevents seasonal colds
1 people found this helpful
I began taking NOW Foods Vegetarian Vitamin D a few months ago and wanted to share my experience. The package includes 120 vegetarian capsules, making it convenient for long-term use. I take one capsule daily, so it lasts for four months, offering great value. Since starting this vitamin D, I've noticed an improvement in my overall health. I had issues with my vitamin D levels, and the supplement effectively restored them. I feel more energetic and less susceptible to seasonal colds. The capsules are small and easy to swallow, and I take them with food for better absorption without experiencing side effects. I appreciate that it's vegetarian and free from artificial additives. NOW Foods is a reliable manufacturer, and I trust their product quality. I'm very pleased with the results and recommend it to anyone seeking a quality source of Vitamin D!
7.5
Effective for colds
Help at the first signs of a cold and ARVI, in combination with zinc and vitamin C.
9
Supports cold treatment
Excellent! I ordered this dosage for my wife, as her test results indicated it’s essential to maintain the level. We typically reduce the dosage during summer, but when autumn arrives or we experience the first signs of a cold, we promptly increase to larger doses. In winter, we maintain a permanent dosage of 5, and during illness, we take 10-15 for a week.
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
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.
7
Vitamin D's limited cold impact
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.
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.

References

  1. 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
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. 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
  5. 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
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