There's been a lot of hype in the news lately that a lack of Vitamin D leads to an increased risk of respiratory infections, like the flu or common cold. And, people who have a pre-existing respiratory disease - like asthma, or COPD - appear to be at a higher risk for this association.
Alas, a new COPD clinical study is also in the news, and is designed to test the hypothesis that an improved Vitamin D status in the body leads to a reduction of respiratory infections in patients who have COPD and an overall improvement in COPD outcomes.
Now accepting participants, the study encourages both men and women to apply. To be considered for the study, you must have a primary diagnosis of COPD exacerbation, a smoking history of at least 10 pack years, and a GOLD stage as measured by spirometry testing, of either moderate, severe or very severe COPD.
For more information and to find out if you qualify, visit:
Vitamin D as Treatment for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
What can you do to boost your levels of Vitamin D? Here are some tips:
- Eat salmon, with the bones
- Drink 3 cups of milk per day
- Get 15 minutes of sunshine per day. If you don't live in a sunshine infested state (like mine) then,
- Take a multivitamin, with 200 international units of Vitamin D
Want more information about COPD clinical trials? Visit the COPD Forum.
Please be aware that the daily requirements for Vit. D are currently in transition and it has been found to therapeutic at much higher dosage–some are suggesting 2000iu’s daily–esp. in northern regions. Im not equipped to give you substantiation–feel free to roam the web..lots on it out there. A simple blood test can tell you where you’re at w/your level of Vitamin D. Great stuff–I’ve been much healthier since taking large doses.
Would love to hear about the most current updates. I will, as well, investigate the topic. Thanks for your comment.
We see a huge amount of Vit D deficiency in out family practice office. It is probably an offshoot of the sunscreen revolution. Treating these low levels has ANECDOTALLY raised peoples energy levels and overall mood. I am going to try to treat some asthmatics and see how they do.
Vitamin D deficiency is probably the most significant public health issue, that can be easily corrected and reduce the rates of chronic diseases immediately. Low levels due to diminished sunshine exposure are linked to the winter flu/cold season, to certain cancers, heart disease, autoimmune disorders, asthma, chronic pain, fibromyalgia and depression.
Good article.
However the vitamin d levels you suggested are too low. The Canadian Cancer Society suggestes in the fall and winter Canadians take 1,000 IU. Vitamin D experts John Cannell, and Dr Veith, suggest getting at least 5,000 IU from all sources, tanning beds, sun, and diet.
I take 5,000 IU a day from supplements since in the Canadian winter we can’t get any from the sun. The amount they put in milk is not always accurate, often the vitamin d leves are much lower than claimed.
can gladly provide with you peer reviewed papers on Vitmain D and pulmanory function, depression, flu, mental health, MS, schizophrenia and best therapeutic dose levels.
reply to my email address
Hi Alistair is there any chance you could put a link to the peer reviewed papers on Vitamin D and pulmonary function that you mentioned as your email address does not appear on the comments. Thanks!