New research suggests low levels of vitamin D are associated with a higher incidence of respiratory tract infections such as colds or the flu.

Other evidence suggests that vitamin D plays a role in the immune system and may help prevent infections.

In this study researchers examined the association between vitamin D levels and respiratory infections in 18 883 participants 12 years and older.

The results of the research indicated that upper respiratory tract infections were significantly more prevalent among individuals with the lowest vitamin D levels compared to those with the highest levels.

The association between low vitamin D levels and respiratory tract infections seemed to be stronger in individuals with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

The authors note that randomized controlled trials are warranted to explore the effects of vitamin D supplementation on respiratory tract infections.

The recommended daily intake of vitamin D is 200 international units (IU) for people up to 50 years old. The recommended daily intake of vitamin D is 400 IU for people 51 to 70 years old and 600 IU for people over 70 years old. Norman's recommendation for all adults is to have an average daily intake of at least 2000 IU.

Ingestion of extremely high doses of vitamin D can cause hypercalcemia, a condition in which the blood's calcium level is above normal. The highest daily 'safe' dose of vitamin D is 10,000 IU.

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References:
1. Ginde AA, Mansbach JM, Camargo CA Jr. Association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level and upper respiratory tract infection in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Arch Intern Med. 2009 Feb 23;169(4):384-90. PMID: 19237723.
2. Image by filiachan. 

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