- shampabell
Scientists conclude Vitamin-D deficiency correlates with Covid-19 deaths
Updated: Aug 5, 2020
Scientists have found the number of deaths from Covid-19 were lower among those countries who had higher vitamin D levels.
Surprisingly countries such as Spain and Italy, which had high COVID-19 death rates, both suffer from high rates of vitamin D deficiency, despite their lower latitude positioning and increased exposure to sunlight.
Lower infection and mortality rates were recorded in Norway, Finland and Denmark, which actually have higher vitamin D levels because supplementation and fortification of foods in those countries are more common.
The researchers say the association between vitamin D and COVID-19 deaths rates are “statistically significant”.
Some people are at greater risk of vitamin D deficiency including:
People with naturally darker skin. This is because the pigment (melanin) in dark skin doesn't absorb as much UV radiation.
People who avoid the sun due to previous skin cancers, immune suppression or sensitive skin and those who have limited sun exposure, such as night-shift workers.
People who wear covering or concealing clothing.
People who spend a long time indoors, such as those who are housebound or institutionalised.
People who are obese or have disabilities, diseases or medications that affect vitamin D metabolism, including, end stage liver disease, renal disease and fat malabsorption syndromes such as cystic fibrosis, coeliac disease, inflammatory bowel disease.
Breast-fed babies of vitamin D deficient mothers (formula milk is fortified with vitamin D).
People who may be at risk of vitamin D deficiency should talk to their doctor for advice and request a blood test.
For people with vitamin D deficiency can take a vitamin D injection for an instant fix. Vitamin D injections results in a higher rate of absorption and retention with faster and effective results.
