Vitamin D and the flu

Colds and flus are most common during the winter months, which are right around the corner (or, in some areas, already here). The lack of sunlight may be a factor in this. Sunlight stimulates vitamin D synthesis in our skin, and the vitamin D then stimulates antimicrobial peptides. These compounds have antibiotic-like properties, and can directly and rapidly destroy the cell walls of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, including the influenza virus; playing a key role in keeping the lungs free of infection. So if you have some free time to go outside when the sun is shining - go for it! Vitamin D is great for a whole host of other things. To learn more about vitamin D and the great research that is being done, visit the Vitamin D Council.