Numerous studies in the United States show that Vitamin D supplement for COVID-19 prevention is something that needs to be seriously considered. Having adequate blood test levels of this vitamin is critical in humans with COVID-19 infection. This will help achieve the goal of reducing coronavirus mortality rates. It may also avert a collapse in healthcare systems all around the world.
If you have a deficiency, getting adequate vitamin D supplements is something you need to consider. In order to prevent COVID-19, it can become part of a comprehensive strategy during the current global pandemic. More than that, regular supplementation of this vitamin may also keep you from experiencing severe (and possibly life-threatening) symptoms.
According to a recent study conducted by Northwestern University, vitamin D deficiency may play a key role in the cytokine storm. It refers to an extreme immune response that causes a host of life-threatening symptoms. The cytokine storm is considered by many health experts to be the leading cause of severe symptoms in COVID-19 patients.
The COVID-19 is a novel virus we’ve never dealt with before. You are now required to wash your hands and cover your more because your life depends on it. Experts are still learning about its effects on the body and how it is transmitted.
With that being said, it is necessary to dive deeper into how the body’s immune system fights off contagions. This way, we can gain a better understanding of the role of vitamin D in the prevention of COVID-19 infection.
Vitamin D: Strong Immune System Against COVID-19
COVID-19 is part of the coronavirus family – a group of viruses that cause the common cold. These viruses also cause Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) which attack the respiratory tract.
The novel SARS-CoV-2 virus causes COVID-19 infection. The virus enters your body through the respiratory tract, typically through your eyes, nose, and mouth. The immune system detects and responds immediately to try to stop the virus from replicating.
For older adults or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, their immune system is oftentimes compromised. This is what’s causing a cytokine storm. The immune system tends to produce an excess amount of proteins called cytokines.
These proteins attack cells in the body in an attempt to destroy the virus. However, it can lead to intense inflammation. Because COVID-19 attacks the lungs, the excess amount of cytokines isn’t good news for those who are immunocompromised. It can lead to acute respiratory infections and consequent death.
Importance of Vitamin D Supplement for COVID-19 Prevention
At Statcare, we diagnose and treat a large number of patients at our NYC urgent care clinics. We were open during the pandemic surge helping New Yorkers. Our experts now believe we will be seeing more of the coronavirus and flu virus later this year.
Many viruses circulate only during the winter months. Many experts and researchers suggest that this phenomenon is due to low vitamin D levels throughout the winter season. The amount of melanin pigment in darker skin dictates how much of this vitamin can be created in the body.
The sun is our main source of vitamin D. During the colder months of the year, days become shorter and we spend most of our time indoors. Because there are fewer opportunities to get sun exposure, it also negatively impacts Vitamin D status in our bodies.
You can also get vitamin D from food like salmon, tuna, cheese, egg yolk, and beef liver or liver oils. Symptoms of low levels include bone pain, tiredness, fatigue, depression, and weight loss.
Vitamin D supplements for COVID-19 prevention can ultimately protect public health. Adequate dosage of vitamin D in our system can lead to a stronger immune response against viral infections. Plus, it can help reduce the risk of developing coronavirus diseases.
Vitamin D increases the integrity of cell junctions, which are a gateway for viruses to enter the body. More importantly, though, it enhances cellular immunity by reducing the cytokine storm in those who are immunocompromised. Increasing vitamin D levels might prove to be effective in the prevention of COVID-19 complications
Understanding Vitamin D Supplement for COVID-19 Prevention
Vitamin D is a natural immunoregulator, which when taken on a regular basis enhances the body’s antimicrobial activity against pathogens. These include acute respiratory illnesses such as influenza and coronaviruses. There are also non-respiratory diseases such as hepatitis C, dengue, and human immunodeficiency.
Vitamin D interferes with the viral replicative cycle in blood levels. It prevents entry and subsequent binding of the virus with the cells. This is done by stimulating antimicrobial peptides and inducing antiviral cytokines.
There is evidence that vitamin D insufficiency can lead to viral assault by SARS-CoV-2. Some people have a deficiency from low sunlight exposure. These people run a higher risk of respiratory tract infection-related complications from the novel coronavirus.
Clinical trials are ongoing to prove the effectiveness of vitamin D supplements for coronavirus prevention. This can help mitigate the impact of the global coronavirus pandemic and protect vulnerable populations from increased risk of severe COVID-19.
Getting Adequate Vitamin D Supplement for COVID-19 Prevention in NYC
Consider how this vitamin and coronavirus COVID-19 are at complete odds with each other. The impact of this dietary supplement in significantly boosting your immune system is obvious.
It’s easy to see why individuals would want to ensure their vitamin D levels are adequate. This is especially more important for those at-risk for severe COVID-19 symptoms. Depending on the lab and its range, levels of this vitamin below 30 ng/mL are considered low. Medical opinion from Statcare’s experts is that levels in the 80 ng/mL range will probably help prevent COVID-19.
Over the counter, Vitamin D is available for bone health. The amount varies from 400 IU, 600 IU, 800 IU, 1000 IU, 2000 IU, 4,000 IU to 5,000 IU. The amount of vitamin in prescription doses is at 50,000 international units IU of ergocalciferol (Vitamin D3). The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) is 600 to 800 IU per day, depending on the age of the person taking it.
Statcare has been on top of the COVID-19 outbreak since the beginning. We can help you get the adequate IU of Vitamin D supplements needed for the prevention of COVID-19 complications.
Statcare is one of the first clinics to offer COVID-19 testing in NYC. Statcare is helping to prevent COVID-19 through on-site testing as businesses begin to re-open. We can give you medical advice if you are experiencing severe symptoms associated with coronavirus.
In addition to getting a COVID-19 antibody test, you can check your blood test for adequate vitamin levels. A low level can be supplemented and prevent coronavirus at one of our eight urgent care clinics in NYC. Walk-in or check-in online now to get started!
