A new study led by the University of Surrey has found a correlation between vitamin D deficiency and the risk of hospital admissions for respiratory infections.
Vitamin D, which is made by the body using sunlight and found in foods such as oily fish, red meat, and egg yolks, is vital for bone and muscle health.
The research suggests that people with a severe vitamin D deficiency (below 15 nmol/L) were a third more likely to be admitted to hospital with conditions including bronchitis and pneumonia.
Abi Bournot, lead author from the University of Surrey, said the “antibacterial and antiviral properties” of vitamin D are thought to help reduce the risk of respiratory tract infections.”