“There is robust evidence that vitamin D protects against respiratory infections in general.”
The Oireachtas health committee has been told that there is an “extensive body” of research showing the protective role of vitamin D against Covid-19.
Doctor Daniel McCartney, director of human nutrition and dietetics at TU Dublin told the Oireachtas that the Government should be looking at Vitamin D as part of its Covid strategy.
McCartney said that every adult in Ireland should take a dose of between 800 and 1000 IU (international units) daily.
He said: “There is robust evidence that vitamin D protects against respiratory infections in general.
“Since May 2020, geographic studies have shown that Covid-19 incidence and mortality are higher in countries far from the equator and in countries with confirmed low vitamin D status.
“Furthermore, the population groups who are most likely to be vitamin D deficient are the same groups who have suffered the worst effects of Covid-19.”
Speaking in January, CarePlus Pharmacist in Dublin Cormac Spooner said: “We’ve known for many years about how important Vitamin D is for the body so if it does protect against Covid-19, then it’s another great reason to keep on top of your intake.
“People in Ireland have earned a reputation for being at risk of Vitamin D deficiency so it’s a good idea to chat to your pharmacist about it.
“It seems that every day we see new evidence around the benefits of supplements, and indeed the potential risks of not getting enough Vitamin D. So while the debate over its role in protecting against Covid-19 continues, everyone should consider taking a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms of Vitamin D anyway.
“Pharmacists can identify a suitable supplement, depending on a customer’s age, general health and any other medications they may be taking.”
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