Tag

Vitamin D

All articles tagged with #vitamin d

Vitamin D May Slow Diabetes Risk in Prediabetes
health20 days ago

Vitamin D May Slow Diabetes Risk in Prediabetes

A meta‑analysis of about 4,500 people with prediabetes across 10 trials found vitamin D supplementation modestly increased the share who reached normal blood sugar (18.5% vs 14% on placebo), suggesting potential improvements in glycemic control and insulin resistance, though effects vary and aren’t guaranteed. Experts say vitamin D should complement—not replace—lifestyle changes (low‑glycemic diet, weight management, regular exercise) and medical guidance; typical study doses were around 4,000 IU daily, with precautions against toxicity and the need to check vitamin D levels with a clinician.

Winter weight chaos: science explains the season’s scale and how to shed it fast
health24 days ago

Winter weight chaos: science explains the season’s scale and how to shed it fast

Winter weight gain is partly biological—colder months often trigger more eating and less activity, and fats influence the body's seasonal signals. Saturated fat can make PER2 act as if it’s summer, promoting fat storage, while unsaturated fat may push the body toward winter fat burning. Add to that higher caloric intake in winter and reduced activity. Practical steps: get morning light to reset your body clock, eat regular meals with most calories earlier in the day, emphasize protein and fiber to curb hunger, consider vitamin D and targeted fibers like inulin or glucomannan, and stay active with daily walks or at‑home workouts for steady weight loss.

Vitamin D and Omega-3 Might Outperform Antidepressants in Depression Research
health27 days ago

Vitamin D and Omega-3 Might Outperform Antidepressants in Depression Research

Meta-analyses cited by a researcher suggest vitamin D and omega-3 supplements may reduce depressive symptoms more than common antidepressants: amitriptyline shows an effect size of about 0.417 vs placebo, omega-3 around 0.558 (1500 mg/day with at least 60% EPA), and vitamin D about 1.82 (5000 IU/day). These findings come from Cipriani 2018 (antidepressants), Sublette 2011+ (omega-3), and Ghaemi 2024 (vitamin D), but all estimates carry large uncertainty and official doses are blamed as “too low.” While supplements are cheap and generally safe, some caveats apply (kidney stones or blood thinners require medical advice). More research is needed, but the article argues trying these might be reasonable for some people under supervision.

health1 month ago

Winter Vitamin D: Don’t Overdo Supplements, NHS Warns

UK health experts warn that vitamin D is important in darker months, but taking more than the advised amount can cause hypercalcemia and symptoms such as excessive thirst and urination, nausea, stomach pain, headaches, brain fog, and new aches. The NHS recommends about 10 mcg daily during the winter and notes that most people can meet needs through sunlight and diet when possible; use supplements to cover gaps and consult a doctor if unsure.

Vitamin D Deficiency Tied to More Severe Flu Infections
health1 month ago

Vitamin D Deficiency Tied to More Severe Flu Infections

An observational study of 36,258 UK Biobank participants found severe vitamin D deficiency (<15 nmol/L) linked to a 33% higher hospitalization rate for respiratory infections, with each 10 nmol/L increase associated with a 4% drop in hospitalizations; about 18% of Americans have insufficient vitamin D. Experts warn this is not causation, advise testing and doctor guidance before supplementation, and emphasize vaccination and other preventative measures as primary flu defenses.

Too much vitamin D can backfire — spot the warning signs and trim your dose
health1 month ago

Too much vitamin D can backfire — spot the warning signs and trim your dose

The NHS advises a daily 10 microgram vitamin D supplement from October to March, but overdoing it can cause symptoms such as excessive thirst and urination, nausea, stomach upset, headaches or brain fog, and new aches or cramps, which may indicate hypercalcaemia. With many people taking higher-dose products and some supplements delivering up to 12.5 times the safe limit, it’s easy to double up from tablets, sprays, gummies, or fortified foods. Use only one vitamin D source and consult a clinician if warning signs appear.

health1 month ago

Vitamin D Linked to Lower Respiratory Infection Hospitalisations, UK Study Finds

A UK study analyzing about 36,000 adults found that severe vitamin D deficiency (<15 nmol/L) was linked to a 33% higher likelihood of hospital admission for respiratory infections (including flu, pneumonia and bronchitis) compared with those with adequate levels (>75 nmol/L). Moreover, for every 10 nmol/L increase in vitamin D, respiratory infection hospitalisations fell by around 4%. The NHS already recommends a daily 10 microgram vitamin D supplement during autumn and winter, and the vitamin is found in foods like oily fish, red meat, egg yolks and fortified cereals. Published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the study underscores vitamin D’s potential antiviral benefits and notes older adults and ethnic minority groups are at higher risk of deficiency.

Magnesium May Help Lower Colorectal Cancer Risk for Some, Study Finds
health1 month ago

Magnesium May Help Lower Colorectal Cancer Risk for Some, Study Finds

A small study suggests magnesium supplementation may alter gut bacteria and boost vitamin D activity in the colon, potentially lowering colorectal cancer risk in people with functioning TRPM7 genes; results vary by genetics, and more research is needed before recommendations. Experts advise not starting magnesium specifically to prevent cancer yet and to consult a healthcare provider, while maintaining adequate dietary magnesium.

The Essential Role of Vitamin D and Magnesium in Bone Health and Immunity
health2 months ago

The Essential Role of Vitamin D and Magnesium in Bone Health and Immunity

Approximately 60% of the global population suffers from vitamin D deficiency, which plays a crucial role in immune response and vaccine effectiveness. Experts recommend daily supplementation, especially for older adults and those with darker skin, as dietary sources and sunlight are often insufficient to maintain optimal levels. Regular testing and consultation with healthcare providers are advised to determine appropriate vitamin D intake.

Most of the World Lacks Vitamin D, Increasing Illness Risk, But Sunlight and Diet Can Help
health2 months ago

Most of the World Lacks Vitamin D, Increasing Illness Risk, But Sunlight and Diet Can Help

Approximately 60% of the global population suffers from vitamin D deficiency, which plays a crucial role in immune response and vaccine effectiveness. Experts recommend daily supplementation, especially for older adults and those with darker skin, as natural sources like sunlight and diet are often insufficient. Maintaining optimal vitamin D levels can help prevent respiratory illnesses and improve responses to vaccines.

Essential Nutrients and Foods to Boost Vitamin D Absorption and Bone Health
health2 months ago

Essential Nutrients and Foods to Boost Vitamin D Absorption and Bone Health

Vitamin D deficiency is widespread, but its effectiveness depends on magnesium, which activates vitamin D in the body. Without enough magnesium, vitamin D remains inactive, impairing bone health, immunity, and muscle function. Consuming magnesium-rich foods or supplements, under medical guidance, can enhance vitamin D absorption and overall health.