Immunity with Vitamin D

Research study on respiratory infections found 36% of people with low vitamin D levels are more likely to catch a cold or flu-80% of Americans are vitamin D deficient.  When Vitamin D is at a sufficient level, a protein known as catheliciden raises the immune system to fight infection. This protein can kill bacteria and viruses.  Studies have shown that asthma patients and people with lung disease have a strong association with insufficient blood levels of vitamin D.  The best way to determine your vitamin D level is to get a 25-hydroxey vitamin D blood test.  The optimal dose of vitamin D is currently recommended from 200-600 IU a day.  Some food sources for vitamin D are cod liver oil, salmon, mackerel, canned tuna fish and sardines, milk, fortified margarine, swiss cheese, liver, beef and ready-to-eat cereals.  Vitamin D is also obtained through sun exposure.