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Vitamin D: immune function, inflammation, infections and auto-immunity
Casey R Johnson1, Tom D Thacher2
1Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Paediatrics and International Child Health
|March 1, 2023
Summary
Low vitamin D levels are linked to increased risk of infections and autoimmune diseases. Supplementation may benefit those deficient, particularly for respiratory infections and certain autoimmune conditions.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Vitamin D is crucial for immune system regulation beyond bone health.
- Widespread vitamin D deficiency is associated with higher risks of infections and autoimmune disorders.
- An inverse relationship exists between vitamin D status and susceptibility to these conditions.
Conclusions:
- Vitamin D status is inversely associated with infectious and autoimmune disease incidence.
- Supplementation is recommended for vitamin D deficient individuals.
- Vitamin D may offer additional benefits for acute respiratory infections and certain autoimmune conditions.
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