Winter Flu Season and Vitamin D

[Guest guest]

Second Opinion Health Alert - December 13, 2006 - [Excerpts]

We already know that our bodies produce a lot LESS vitamin D during the winter.

But is it possible the reduced vitamin D levels in winter contribute to the

flu? The evidence is there.

Science recently discovered that vitamin D stimulates your

white blood cells to make a substance called cathelicidin. Researchers

haven't studied this chemical on the flu virus yet, but they have previously

reported that it attacks a wide variety of pathogens. These include fungi,

viruses, bacteria, and even tuberculosis.

Vitamin D is cheap. And it stimulates your body to make what might be the

ultimate antibiotic! One with no toxicity at all and only kills those organisms

invading you (not your own cells).

Arm yourself with the incredible protection of vitamin D. Get sunlight when

you can. Just be sure not to burn. If you are mostly indoors, I strongly

suggest that you add vitamin D to your daily regimen. I recommend 5,000 IU per

day. I see no downside to this dose, especially in the winter months!

Yours for better health and medical freedom,

Jay Rowen, MD