In an illuminating panel discussion that took place on January 10, 2022, three distinguished vitamin D experts gathered to provide insights into the profound impact of vitamin D on human health, particularly in the context of COVID-19. Dr. Pam R. Taub, a renowned cardiologist and professor of medicine at the University of California, San Diego, skilfully moderated the discussion. Dr. Michael Holick, a pioneer in vitamin D research and a professor of medicine at Boston University, and Dr. JoAnn Manson, another luminary in the field and a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, contributed their expertise to this enlightening conversation.

The Protective Power of Vitamin D

Dr. Taub initiated the discussion with a pressing question: “There’s a large amount of data that shows low vitamin D levels are associated with patients who have more complications from COVID-19 and are in the ICU. What are your thoughts on supplementation with vitamin D for everyone?”

Dr. Holick responded with compelling insights based on extensive research. He stated, “We initiated studies almost immediately after the pandemic began. We worked with Quest Diagnostics and looked at more than 191,000 COVID-positive patients throughout all 50 states, all ages, ethnicities, and latitudes, and showed that if you have a blood level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D of 20 ng/mL (50 nmol/L) compared with 34 ng/mL (85 nmol/L), you had a 54% higher risk of acquiring the infection.”

Dr. Holick further explained that vitamin D plays a crucial role in immunomodulation, which is pivotal in mitigating the cytokine storm associated with COVID-19. The active form of vitamin D helps to regulate cytokines, thus reducing the harmful ones and enhancing those with protective properties. In clinical studies, patients with sufficient vitamin D levels upon admission to the hospital exhibited a significant reduction in morbidity and mortality, particularly among those over the age of 40.

Dr. Manson echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that vitamin D’s potential benefits during a pandemic make it a safe and logical choice for supplementation. She cited the VITAL study, which demonstrated that daily doses of 2000 IUs of vitamin D were virtually free of adverse events over 5.3 years. Dr. Manson advocated for outdoor sun exposure, physical activity, and a daily vitamin D supplement of 1000 or 2000 IUs during the pandemic.

A Ray of Hope in Ongoing Research

Dr. Manson also shared exciting news about ongoing research. The Vitamin D for COVID-19 trial (VIVID) aims to evaluate the impact of high-dose vitamin D supplementation (10,000 IUs for two days followed by 3200 IUs daily for four weeks) on the severity of COVID-19 symptoms, hospitalization rates, and healthcare visits. The results of this trial are anticipated at the end of the year or early 2022.

Tailored Vitamin D Recommendations

Dr. Holick emphasized that following the Endocrine Society practice guidelines is a reasonable approach. For adults, a daily intake of 1500-2000 units is recommended, with consideration for higher doses in obese individuals. Dr. Manson suggested that during a pandemic, recommendations should lean towards more vitamin D intake, especially in a population-wide context, recommending 1000-2000 IUs daily.

Optimal Vitamin D Levels: A Balancing Act

Both experts acknowledged that maintaining optimal vitamin D levels is paramount in reducing the risk and severity of COVID-19. A target blood vitamin D level between 85-140 nmol/L (30-52 ng/mL) is generally recommended, often achieved through daily supplementation of 1000-2000 IUs of vitamin D. However, individual needs may vary, emphasizing the importance of consulting with healthcare professionals to determine the ideal vitamin D regimen.

In conclusion, the consensus among vitamin D experts points to the potential benefits of vitamin D in preventing COVID-19 infection and reducing its severity. While further research is underway, individuals are encouraged to maintain adequate vitamin D levels, especially during a pandemic, to bolster their immune system and safeguard their health.

Reference:

Excerpts from Medscape Interview Published January 31, 2022: Beyond Bone Health: Does Vitamin D Have a Role in Cancer, CVD, and COVID? [Link](https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/959893?uac=342474MN&faf=1&sso=true&impID=3926885&src=wnl_tp10n_220106_mscpedit#vp_1)

Eat Smart, Live Well, Look Great,

Dr. Meschino