Vitamin D3 (Colecalciferol)

A recent study highlights the fact that the first indication of the significant role of vitamin D on the immune system was made by the detection of the presence of the vitamin D receptor on almost all cells of the immune system (6). It continues to emphasise that the evidence of a link between vitamin D deficiency and adverse outcomes is overwhelming and clearly points towards avoidance of vitamin D deficiency especially in early life (6). Research indicates that this so-called “sunshine vitamin” impacts not only your bones and skeletal structure, but also immune function, blood pressure, mood and brain function (7). Benefits of vitamin D are thought to include enhanced protection against heart disease, cancer, diabetes and depression, along with infections and viruses (8). Calcium and vitamin D are two important micronutrients that work together in the body. The complex vitamin D and calcium relationship is especially crucial when it comes to bone metabolism, as both are integral to maintaining the strength of the skeleton. Vitamin D is considered an “immune modulator.” The immune cells contain receptors for vitamin D, and it’s been shown vitamin D benefits overall immune function in several ways, including by preventing prolonged or excessive inflammatory responses (9). Emerging research shows that this vitamin helps with healthy cell replication and may play a role in protecting against the development of autoimmune conditions, infections, viruses and less serious illnesses, like common colds and the flu. Further, there is evidence that humans need enough D in order for T cells, B cells, dendrite cells and macrophages, white blood cells that attack pathogens, to function properly. Vitamin D benefits seem capable of helping strengthen the immune system by decreasing the ability of some viruses to replicate and grow. It’s been shown to enhance the expression of an enzyme called ACE2, which is believed to have the ability to protect against acute lung injury. Additionally, this vitamin is thought to support integrity of the gut lining, protect the mucosal barrier and regulate gut immunity. Due to its anti-inflammatory action (10), vitamin D helps to control inflammatory responses and maintain B-lymphocyte homeostasis, vitamin D may also benefit those with autoimmune disorders and other conditions, including: multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive disorders and high blood pressure.