There are many health experts saying that it is better to take vitamin D, specifically the vitamin D3 type, than getting flu shots for flu prevention. Based on my research, this statement is indeed true. Learn more from the details below on how vitamin D can keep your immune system strong and keep you away from flu infection.
Before I began taking vitamin D, I decided to dig a little deeper with this nutrient with my own research on the subject. I was astounded by the medical information supporting this claim of experts that the vitamin is an excellent way to prevent flu.
Immune System Vitamin
In the 'Healthy Nutrition' publication, researches from U.S. and Canada have reported that the consumption of higher doses of vitamin D may minimize the incidence and severity of influenza infection. The bets property of Vitamin D is that it stimulates the immune system to release antibiotics, specifically antimicrobial peptides.
The release of these antibiotics promotes the consumption and destruction of foreign matters like influenza viruses. This process is called phagocytosis. It also promotes immunomodulatory functions and anti-tumor activity, keeping the immune system strong to fight diseases and viral infection.
But there are so many types of vitamin D. What is the best type to take? According these same studies, it is best to take vitamin D3 or cholecalciferol from animal sources to prevent flu or colds. You can also expose the body to sunlight. The sunlight will convert cholesterol to vitamin D3. Hence, sun exposure works with dual purposes. It lowers cholesterol levels and, at the same time, prevents influenza or the common colds.