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
Supports immunity
103 people found this helpful
Recommend! The order was delivered promptly. I have been taking VITAMIN D3 from SOLGAR for a long time. 5000 IU is a very convenient dosage for me (240 capsules). The capsules are tasteless and easy to swallow. Vitamin D3 effectively supports the immune system—I've stopped falling ill with colds. It helps maintain a healthy skeletal system due to calcium absorption. I am very pleased.
Read More
9
Cured depression
5 people found this helpful
Excellent! Vitamin D acts like a hormone, influencing every cell in the body. Thanks to it, I have noticed increased immunity, and my blood pressure and heart rate have improved. I've forgotten about colds, hair loss, drowsiness, and depression. It's unfortunate that vitamin D in a 10,000 unit dosage has become unavailable in Russia.
Read More
9
Immunity boost
2 people found this helpful
The order was delivered promptly. I have been taking VITAMIN D3 from SOLGAR for a long time. 5000 IU is a very convenient dosage for me (240 capsules). The capsules are tasteless and easy to swallow. Vitamin D3 greatly supports my immune system—I have stopped suffering from colds. It helps keep my skeletal system healthy. I highly recommend it.
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.
Recommend! The order was delivered promptly. I have been taking VITAMIN D3 from SOLGAR for a long time. 5000 IU is a very convenient dosage for me (240 capsules). The capsules are tasteless and easy to swallow. Vitamin D3 effectively supports the immune system—I've stopped falling ill with colds. It helps maintain a healthy skeletal system due to calcium absorption. I am very pleased.
Read More
9
Cured depression
5 people found this helpful
Excellent! Vitamin D acts like a hormone, influencing every cell in the body. Thanks to it, I have noticed increased immunity, and my blood pressure and heart rate have improved. I've forgotten about colds, hair loss, drowsiness, and depression. It's unfortunate that vitamin D in a 10,000 unit dosage has become unavailable in Russia.
Read More
9
Immunity boost
2 people found this helpful
The order was delivered promptly. I have been taking VITAMIN D3 from SOLGAR for a long time. 5000 IU is a very convenient dosage for me (240 capsules). The capsules are tasteless and easy to swallow. Vitamin D3 greatly supports my immune system—I have stopped suffering from colds. It helps keep my skeletal system healthy. I highly recommend it.
Read More
9
Increased energy
2 people found this helpful
Excellent vitamin D3 5000 units; it really works! I've checked it repeatedly, both personally and on relatives. Regular use has a cumulative effect, increasing overall immunity and boosting my energy levels. I find it beneficial to combine it with fish oil and a multivitamin complex, which strengthens my body in stressful situations and during colds, reinforcing immunity with these vitamins!
Read More
9
Family wellness
Good vitamin D, recommended by a doctor. None of my family had colds during the second pandemic season. It's essential to consume it with fatty foods to ensure proper absorption by the liver. I recommend it!
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, many individuals report experiencing noticeable effects from taking Vitamin D3 supplements within a timeframe of approximately 1.5 to 2 weeks. One reviewer indicated a positive change in mood and a decrease in cold symptoms after starting the D3 supplement, stating, "I noticed an effect after about 1.5-2 weeks" Read Review. Another user remarked about regular intake leading to a significant reduction in the frequency of colds and improved immune function over time Read Review.
Moreover, consistent use appears to yield cumulative benefits, with several users emphasizing that prolonged consumption can further strengthen immunity and enhance overall health. For instance, one user mentioned that regular usage leads to increased energy levels and lowered susceptibility to colds after a few months Read Review. Therefore, while initial effects may be felt within a few weeks, sustained use is often recommended for maximum immune support and effectiveness against colds.
Vitamin D supplementation has shown some potential benefits for alleviating cold symptoms, particularly in individuals with insufficient or deficient levels of this essential nutrient. Several studies suggest that adequate intake of vitamin D can lead to significant improvements in symptoms associated with upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs). For instance, participants receiving vitamin D3 reported reductions in common cold symptoms such as runny noses, sneezing, and congestion, along with an overall improvement in quality of life during their illnesses [5]. In a controlled study, those supplementing with vitamin D experienced reduced severity of symptoms and a 36% decrease in the number of days suffering from URTI compared to a placebo group [4].
However, the evidence remains mixed regarding vitamin D's ability to prevent colds directly. Some studies show that high doses may help reduce occurrences of respiratory illnesses, with one analysis noting a 57% reduction in colds among young children with high-dose supplementation [2]. Yet, other research found no significant benefits in cold incidence related to vitamin D levels [1]. Overall, while vitamin D may assist in easing the symptoms and recovery associated with colds, further research is necessary to fully understand its role in prevention. If you're considering vitamin D supplementation, especially for cold relief, it may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported significant improvements in their symptoms after taking Vitamin D3 supplements. A recurring theme is the reduction in the frequency of colds, with several users noting that since starting the supplement, they have stopped getting sick. For example, one user stated, "I have stopped suffering from seasonal colds" Read Review, while another remarked that the "frequency of colds has decreased significantly" Read Review, illustrating a clear connection between Vitamin D3 intake and immune support.
Additionally, users have indicated that Vitamin D3 not only bolsters immunity but also improves overall well-being. One review highlighted how symptoms of chronic fatigue and depression have diminished after consistent use, stating, "symptoms of chronic fatigue and depression have started to dissipate" Read Review. Others have expressed improvements in energy levels and mood, suggesting a holistic enhancement in quality of life related to the supplement's effects Read Review. It's important to note that while these experiences are encouraging, individual results can vary significantly.
According to user reviews, many individuals have found success in combining Vitamin D3 with other supplements to bolster their immune response against colds. One user highlighted that pairing Vitamin D3 with fish oil and a multivitamin complex significantly strengthened their body during stressful situations and cold seasons, effectively enhancing immunity Read Review. Another user reported feeling even stronger while doubling their zinc intake alongside the D3 supplement, which they felt contributed to a quicker recovery from viral infections Read Review.
In addition to these combinations, several users reiterated the importance of Vitamin D3 during the cold season, emphasizing its role in maintaining general health and immune support. For many, incorporating Vitamin D3 into their daily regimen has led to significant reductions in the frequency and severity of colds, indicating that combining it with other health supplements may further enhance its positive effects on immunity Read Review.
While the research remains somewhat varied on the dosage of Vitamin D for treating colds, there are some promising indications. One study observed that administering a daily dose of 800 IU of Vitamin D to young children for three months helped reduce mild respiratory symptoms and aided quicker recovery from colds [1]. For children under five, another analysis revealed that higher doses, exceeding 1,000 IU, resulted in a notable 57% reduction in cold occurrences, alongside significant decreases in related symptoms like coughs and fevers [2].
In adult populations, a daily intake of 10 μg (approximately 400 IU) of 25-hydroxyvitamin D over a period of 16 weeks has been associated with significant reductions in the severity of cold symptoms and improved overall quality of life [5]. Overall, while it appears that Vitamin D supplementation—especially at doses around 800 IU to over 1,000 IU—might help alleviate symptoms and shorten the duration of colds, further research is crucial to establish clear guidelines and confirm efficacy across different demographics.
7.5
Mood improvement
When I began taking it, I often felt tired and was in a bad mood. My experiences were challenging, but my body needed some external support, so I relied on vitamin D3 from Solgar. I noticed an effect after about 1.5-2 weeks. While taking D3, I found I didn't need propolis, as I usually caught colds easily. No sore throat or runny nose—despite it being spring with windy weather. My overall mood improved positively.
9
Significant decrease
Excellent! After regular D3 intake, the frequency of colds has decreased significantly. My immunity is normal, and the quality of this vitamin is excellent!
7.5
Reduced fatigue
Excellent! Vitamin D3 was prescribed by a doctor who recommended the firm Solgar. After several months (autumn, winter), my levels returned to normal from being half the lower limit. I am very pleased with the product. Fatigue and drowsiness linked to a deficiency of vitamin D3 have vanished, and I am less likely to catch colds.
9
Eliminated sickness
Great! Excellent vitamins from the manufacturer. I have stopped suffering from seasonal colds.
7.5
Less fatigue
My wife and I have been taking this vitamin for over a year and are very pleased. We suffer fewer colds, and symptoms of chronic fatigue and depression have started to dissipate! Our endocrinologist recommended it to us, and I didn't expect such an effect! I'm allergic, but this hasn't affected me negatively, which is crucial.
9
Cured depression
5 people found this helpful
Excellent! Vitamin D acts like a hormone, influencing every cell in the body. Thanks to it, I have noticed increased immunity, and my blood pressure and heart rate have improved. I've forgotten about colds, hair loss, drowsiness, and depression. It's unfortunate that vitamin D in a 10,000 unit dosage has become unavailable in Russia.
9
Increased energy
2 people found this helpful
Excellent vitamin D3 5000 units; it really works! I've checked it repeatedly, both personally and on relatives. Regular use has a cumulative effect, increasing overall immunity and boosting my energy levels. I find it beneficial to combine it with fish oil and a multivitamin complex, which strengthens my body in stressful situations and during colds, reinforcing immunity with these vitamins!
7.5
Quick recovery
This d3 is excellent for immunity. I've been taking it for a short while but already notice a strengthening of my immune system. I caught a viral infection, but recovered almost unnoticed, with only slight symptoms lasting 2 days! Previously, a common cold lasted much longer. I also doubled my zinc intake. I feel strong and happy with the supplement's quality and convenience.
7.5
Strengthened immunity
Great! The best product ever! My whole family uses it during the cold season! It strengthens immunity, helps relieve joint pain, and combats anxiety!
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.
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'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.
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.
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