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Preventing Viral Illness
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Recently, one of the physicians on national news referred to the health benefits of ultra violet light. Though he didn’t say it, he was indirectly referring to the increase in vitamin D that comes from sunshine on your skin. As an orthopedic surgeon I have long been aware of the necessity of high levels of vitamin D for good bone health.
What I have also learned is that vitamin D is perhaps the most powerful booster of your immune system.1 Recently I have read two studies that confirm that high levels of vitamin D will prevent flu better than a flu shot.2, 3
Many studies suggest that about 70% of our population is deficient in blood levels of vitamin D (including even the Pittsburgh Steelers!) Therefore, I find it incredible that almost none of our many health experts has ever mentioned this extremely helpful preventive treatment.
The standard recommended dose of vitamin D for adults is 5000IU daily. If you have not taken vitamin D before you will need a loading dose of 20,000u daily for 5 days. The blood level of vitamin D needed to prevent flu is approximately 75 - 100ng/ml.
In addition, almost everyone knows the vitamin C is also good for preventing and healing viral illnesses. A good dose for vitamin C would be 1000IU three or four times daily. Also, Vitamin A 25 U (not beta carotene) and zinc 50mg are other natural therapies that are effective against viral illnesses. Beyond supplements, it is important to eat healthy with a diet free of refined sugar and flour as well as staying well hydrated.
Also, as proven by the overwhelming statistics from China, smoking and tobacco use of any amount carries a MUCH higher rate of illness and death from the virus. I am not an "expert" in complementary medicine but I know people who are. Please consider these simple and safe measures to protect yourself and your family.
- 1 Michael Holick Ph.D, MD, The Vitamin D Solution
- 2 Press Release - Oregon State University
- 3 Aloia JF,Li-NgM.Correspondence Epidemial Infect 2007;12:1095-1096
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