Study: Vitamin D Supplements May Help Prevent Autoimmune Disease

During the winter, people often turn to vitamin D supplements to improve their mood and fatigue.

Vitamin D deficiency has also been linked to depression, bone softening, and evensevere COVID.

A new study found that vitamin D supplements may offer an additional benefit.

There really isnt any known way to prevent autoimmune disease.

This would be the first time an approach has been suggested and found to be of benefit.

Experts also suggest that autoimmune disease rates are rising in many parts of the world.

Since autoimmune diseases can develop slowly, they can be hard to diagnose.

If left untreated, these diseases can have irreversible or even life-threatening effects.

In addition to vitamin D, researchers examined the connection between omega-3s and autoimmune disease risk.

What About Dietary Sources of Vitamin D?

While this study found promising results, additional research is needed to show if the results are generalizable.

Manson added that the study findings will need to be replicated before general recommendations can be made.

Plus, reaching 2,000 IU per day of vitamin D from dietary sources would be challenging.

Theyre inexpensive and highly accessible.

Talk to your healthcare provider before taking any new supplements.

Together, you might decide if taking these supplements is right for you.

The FDA does not regulate supplements.

2022;376:e066452.

doi:10.1136/bmj-2021-066452

National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.Autoimmune diseases.

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.Autoimmune diseases.