Hello Mamas,
A strong immune system is your body’s best defense against illnesses. Keeping a high vitamin D3 blood level is key.
Vitamin D builds immunity and helps fight off infection by regulating the activity of immune cells which evoke antiviral responses. It binds to receptors on immune cells such as neutrophils and macrophages and then stimulates these cells to produce peptides with antiviral properties that defend the body against foreign pathogens. Studies have shown that vitamin D metabolites play a role in enhancing production of the human form of cathelicidins and defensins. These two peptides have anti-microbial and immune-modulating capabilities and act as anti-viral agents as part of the innate immune system. Studies have also shown that vitamin D plays a role in both the activation of these cells for helping the body fight off infections and also in suppressing immune response in cases of over inflammation.
I recommend 10-15 minutes a day of sunshine exposure for kids 3 years and older, teens, and adults. Exposure should be while wearing a bathing suit, if possible, during April through October. Your skin naturally produces vitamin D3 when it is exposed to the sun’s UVB rays in the heat of the day. In the winter vitamin and dietary supplements are even more important. Supplementing 2,000-3,000 IU of vitamin D3 day (along with vitamin K in Multivitamin) is ideal.
For optimal results, it is best to take a vitamin K (also known as vitamin K2) supplement if you are taking a vitamin D supplement. Healthy levels of Vitamin D and K2 help promote strong bones and bolster your natural immunity.
Great dietary sources are fresh organic eggs, fish(sardines), fermented foods like sauerkraut, avocados, and dark leafy vegetables (spinach).
Modern life reduces outdoor exposure and reduces sun exposure. The more you are inside the less UVB exposure you get! Getting out in the sun safely and supplementing with vitamin D3 can help increase levels.
If your child is often ill in winter months a blood vitamin D3 level test might show a deficiency. Common symptoms can include muscle weakness or cramps, bone pain, feeling tired or being depressed, though most people do not have any symptoms.
Innate immunity protects us from illness and Vitamin D is an immune strengthener. Research shows that infants born with a Vitamin D deficiency are more prone to ear and respiratory infections. Pregnant mothers should check and boost their Vitamin D3 levels. As a bonus, it also helps balance gut health and diversity and it boosts brain function. Supplementing with Vitamin D can help reduce asthma attacks and eczema. You can see how important Vitamin D deficiency can lead to many health issues and Vitamin D supplementation can support them in recovering from and managing current health!
So to stay healthy, watch your diet, vitamin D level, omega supplement, and probiotics.
One of my go-to Vitamin D3 supplements is the: Klaire Labs Vitamin D3.
You can purchase it through my site with Fullscript. https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/kenneth-akey
-Dr. Kenneth Akey
https://www.kennethakeymd.com/