Vitamin D deficiency found in 80% of COVID-19 patients; Dietary sources suggested by experts

Vitamin D is in the news more than ever due to its greater implications during the time of the Coronavirus pandemic. Health experts have expressed concern over the increasing cases of vitamin D deficiency in the general population as people stay home and are unable to get the “sunshine vitamin” from natural sunlight. In fact, a new study has found over 80% of COVID-19 patients suffering from vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D is known to help many bodily functions, and its insufficiency can lead to weak bones, heart ailments, low immunity. and even breathing problems.

The study published in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” found that 80% of 216 COVID-19 patients admitted to a hospital in Spain are vitamin D deficient. The researchers also noted that men had levels of lower vitamin D than women.

“Vitamin D deficient COVID-19 patients had a higher prevalence of hypertension and cardiovascular disease, increased serum levels of ferritin and troponin, as well as a longer hospital stay. We found no relationship between vitamin D concentrations or vitamin deficiency. and the severity of the disease, ”wrote co-author Jose L. Hernandez, Ph.D., of the University of Cantabria in Santander, Spain.

Another recent study, published in the journal “Plos One”, stated that sufficient vitamin D can reduce the need for oxygen in COVID-19 patients and speed up the treatment process.

(Also Read: How Much Vitamin D is Too Much Vitamin D?)

Vitamin D is also known as the “sunshine vitamin”.

In addition to regular exposure to sunlight to get the vitamin naturally, a diet rich in foods high in vitamin D can also be helpful.

(Note: Following the Vitamin D Diet Tips is not part of the study)

Dietary Sources Rich in Vitamin D:

(Suggested by Dr. Preethi Raj, Chennai nutritionist)

Fatty fish –

Fatty fish such as tuna, salmon and mackerel and fish liver oils provide a good amount of vitamin D content.

Dairy product –

Milk, cheese and other dairy products must be included in the daily diet for a daily dose of vitamin D.

Egg yolks –

Many people discard yolks from eggs fearing a high fat content. Egg yolks also contain decent amounts of vitamin D and can be used sparingly in our meals.

Cereals And Juices –

A perfect combination for breakfast to fill up on vitamin D! Include grains and various fruit juices in your morning diet.

Mushrooms –

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Mushrooms offer a good amount of vitamin D2 nutrients and can be used in a variety of ways to prepare meals for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even snacks.

Fortify your diet with the essential nutrient of vitamin D to live a healthy life.

(This content, including advice, provides general information only. It does not in any way replace the opinion of a qualified physician. Always consult a specialist or your physician for further information. NDTV assumes no responsibility for this information.)