The Vitamin D Paradox in COVID-19 and Why It Predicts But Doesn't Always Protect

[@Medcram]

Go to www.medcram.com for medical courses on ECG, laboratory, COPD, asthma, heart disease and many other topics. We offer CME!

[@aliengrey1708]

Pretty sure the study was talking about prevention of infection, not prevention of hospitalization and/or death. There's nothing that can prevent infection, except masks, no drug or vitamin can prevent viral infection to my knowledge.

[@MissisChannel]

hmmmmm. Not sure about the study. The idea of good vitamin D level is to fight off prevent by healthy immune system....so if you are already tested positive then trying to reverse the spread and infection by using vitamin D would not have too much success rate. The better idea is to have healthy vitamin D level PRIOR to contact with a virus germ .....

[@firegardendevine6039]

@@MissisChannel And healthy vitamin D levels need to be re-defined as do many vitamins and minerals.

[@MissisChannel]

@@firegardendevine6039 yes. I take lichen based vitamin D as I have alpha gal so many supplements are not vegan. It seems to do well.

[@waleedmukhtar2925]

Dr Roger seheult, a menace to disease sickness 😂!

[@valeriereinhard2790]

I always felt it was important for my kids to be outside as much as possible. They generally seem much happier, they sleep better, and they are more active, when they spend their time outside. I found this video so fascinating, and am now more motivated than ever to get all of us outside every day.

[@elizabethbennet4791]

Yes- after nine million years of hominid evolution YA THINK?!??!?! It seems so obvious- yet its shocking how separated we are from our natural selves!!!

[@tawanabellamy8686]

Me too sis

[@tawanabellamy8686]

Do you take vitamin d

[@joelane7146]

I notice when I used to go to the river for the whole day, hiking, sunbathing, swimming, fresh air. I would always sleep good and I'm sure a lot of it was from the sun.

[@cmdrefstathiusplacidus9003]

One word. Cortisol.

[@RK-ww5sj]

This was the best medcram episode I have ever listened to - and I listen to a lot of them. Dr Sechault's point about sunlight is SO important!

[@terjeoseberg990]

It’s simple. Severe Covid causes Vitamin D deficiency. Severe Vitamin D deficiency causes other problems. Replacing the Vitamin D solves those other problems, but doesn’t effects Covid itself. But solving those other problems can reduce your risk of death by those other issues that are caused by severe lack of Vitamin D. However, Covid can still kill you, and cause other severe issues.

[@stevekern7235]

Shows why lockdowns are so bad for the populace.

[@terjeoseberg990]

@@angelaquesnel7546, He said that Vitamin D does not prevent Covid, or death from Covid. I guess he’s saying “get vaccinated”. Are you vaccinated?

[@SoulJah1337]

@@terjeoseberg990 NO. in the USA more people have comorbidities, and they have even less vitamin D mostly ! Sunlight only generates vitamin D when at least 45° to horizon ! Vitamin D just boosts your whole body and immune system and is good overall. They tested healthy monkeys. and they have at least 50ng/mL. Also if people put on sunblocker they wont produce it either and we need other vitamins as well ! greetings from germany ♥

[@terjeoseberg990]

@@angelaquesnel7546, Yes.

[@DaciaMassage]

This is true for Multiple sclerosis patience as well. When I was diagnosed with MS had the lowest vitamin D count mineralogist has ever seen and I was also living in Hawaii. She told me to eat my breakfast outside in the sun without sunscreen on not during peak hours. And honestly it's helped tremendously. I have now been medicine free for over 5 years and my MR's have all come back with no with no new lesions in fact some of them have disappeared.

[@jimgill5706]

You may want to check out Low Dose Naltreone (ldn) for MS.

[@ec7287]

I too am in Hawaii. Glad you're better. My last blood test showed 60 nm/l of D. I make it a point to go outside and get at least 5 minutes of sun. The sun is much stronger here than on the Mainland, and you don't need as much exposure. I also supplement with D3 and K2.

[@tim1398]

MS is another disease that correlates highly with high latitudes living (during childhood). By late teen years the risk factor for it is already baked in. But I think some sun improves everything. People who go for a short walk with long sleeves, hats and sunscreen make me laugh. I recently got plantar fasciitis and can't walk much, it''s too cold to stand still outdoors so getting little sunlight. Its killing me (mentally and maybe physically).

[@Inkling777]

When I lived in Seattle, I worked for a time at the Phinney Neighborhood Association, which operated out of two former schools, one built in 1904 and one in 1917. One was wood and the other brick, but what they had in common were extremely large west-facing windows in their classrooms. During the afternoon, those rooms were flooded with direct sunlight. They believed in the health benefits of sunlight for children.

[@mavisemberson8737]

The same in Britain in the late 19th Century.

[@mickfizz1]

if the windows are shut then the uv b rays cant get through to irradiate the skin necessary for form vitamin d

[@marcinwaach7639]

After outbrake of TB in Poland, they also found sun is important respiratory issues. TB hospitals had sun rooms on roof. Building are repurposed or closed but this can be seen even now. Bad for us we forgot so obvious.

[@scrubjay93]

Not all UV wavelengths go through windows: "Standard window glass, according to the International Ultraviolet Association, will allow UV-A to pass through while almost 100% of the UV-B and UV-C light is blocked." So we need to be careful of extrapolating between indoors and outdoors. However, the light itself absolutely must help with overall mood. My house has NO south-facing windows and very small west-facing ones and I'm in Olympia. It is the most ridiculous design! I suffer from seasonal affective disorder and the winters in this house nearly kill me with cold and depression.

[@edithflood631]

And sunlight kills germs too. It is sterilizing.

[@johannaquinones7473]

A great mind is one that remains open and humble to continue learning an to admit not having all the answers. The arrogance to stay fixed on old ideas, just because that is what we have always known is a great impediment to getting closer to the truth. Thank you for continuing to learn and teach even if against the grain.

[@mairenollag]

Agreed😊

[@christopherellis2663]

I used to work for people like that.

[@brunovan7288]

"Thomas Kuhn's thesis on scientific revolution... points out the reluctance of researchers to abandon familiar paradigms even in the face of anomalies, instead [they too often] come up with explanations that, though contrived, do not require abandoning familiar thought structures. It is only when "too many" anomalies accumulate that it is possible to develop a totally different paradigm -- "

[@solarnaut]

@@brunovan7288 , I'll sign on to this as long as you add a small footnote excluding me from it ! B-)

[@brianarps8756]

As a pale but not yet feeble one, I did not know what my Vitamin D levels were, but guessed that they were not high, so started 1000 i/u per day supplementation. After 15 months I got a test which showed 26 ng/mL, which I considered inadequate. So I started sunbathing for 20 min before 9 am when sun and time permitted, and supplementation up to 5000 i/u on non sunbathing days. After 7 months of that my vit D test showed 56 ng/mL. I also have a modest suntan for the first time in 73 years! Sunbathing also seems to improve sleep, and mood. It just feels good. I have never tested positive for Covid despite having it in the house three times. None of this proves anything but I like to feel in charge of events and this regime achieves this. Thanks for the advice.

[@Medcram]

Great job. Just be aware that very little UVB comes in before 9am. Sunlight before 9 am is beneficial for anchoring your circadian rhythm and getting good sleep.

[@jimgill5706]

There is no paradox. These vitamin D studies do not ever, to my knowledge, test people who have vitamin D levels above 60. 70, or even 100 ng/ml. From my experience over the last 11+ years of keeping my vitamin D level in the 100 to 130 ng/ml range, I just don't get seriously sick anymore. I am 75 years old now and in the last 11+ years I have had only two mild colds and only 1 very mild covid 19 infection. The covid infection lasted about 4 days and was very like a mild cold. Show me one test where people received 8000, 10,000 or 15,000iu of D3 daily (dose dependent on body mass) compared to people who received a dose of 4,000iu or less of D3 daily. While taking higher D3 doses you should also take vitamin K2 and magnesium.

[@jasonhsu4711]

Wow, 100 to 130 ng/mL? My target level is "only" 60 to 80 ng/mL, the upper end of the normal range.

[@TheCatseyepub]

I'm at 110 Ng and no respiratory illness.

[@jimgill5706]

@@jasonhsu4711i have consumed almost everything about vitamin D3 supplementation and health online for the last 10 years because getting my 25(OH)D levels up to where i keep them now has improved my overall health so much. and i have read several books on this subject. here's a great comprehensive video if you are interested: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eGq2f5moepyDZ9U

[@jmcginni]

I increased my level from 40to95 with supplements. Still got symptomatic omicron with two days of fatigue and night sweats

[@TheCatseyepub]

@@jmcginni I think levels above 80ng lessens the chance of contracting COVID significantly , but it's not bullet proof.

[@Kissypooh]

You're killing it on medical and science. Bravo. You're killing it. No politicization, just science and the limitations of science / technology / medicine.

[@Eyes0penNoFear]

Ever since watching your Light As Medicine video, I've spent at least 20 minutes outside whenever there's a sunny day. My face and arms are tan, my eyebrows are already getting sun bleached, and most importantly, I'm beginning to be able to concentrate for the first time in a year and a half, ever since I got Covid in the fall of 2020. I wish I had known about this 20 years ago!

[@Medcram]

Amazing! Yes!

[@HaskellMoore]

Really a great, informative video. Dr. Seheult, you have been been a national treasure through this pandemic, and you calm demeanor and professional advice in layman terms is so appreciated!

[@ignatiushie4403]

Thank you for highlighting this. It explained why i recovered a lot faster from influenza if i walked out under the sun, sweating profusely during the day. The symptoms usually disappeared the day after without any medication. Just plenty of water, absence of air conditioning and plenty of sunshine.

[@katzee7268]

Yes.

[@melodymelomaniac]

Finally got my vitamin D levels up to 60! As someone with auto immune disease it's taken me a long time even taking 10,000 iu a day and as someone who sits in the sun whenever possible

[@mballer]

How do you feel?

[@vincenzotca]

Boosting your vitamin d with supplements isn’t what was suggested here. Watch again.

[@talkingturtle2641]

Nice work! look into adding K2, Mg, and more fats (req's cholesterol in the body) to help keep your levels high with less D3

[@melodymelomaniac]

@@mballer definitely better!

[@melodymelomaniac]

@@vincenzotca I'm aware of that 😂 but if you see I also said I sit in the sun whenever possible. My point was just that it's not easy to get those levels up, especially for people with autoimmune issues.

[@nancyhope2205]

a century ago people with tuberculosis were put out in the sunshine, all wrapped up depending on the weather some people recovered. The town I live in used to have such institutions.

[@hatcher7]

Hey Doc. CRNA here. That was a great video. Although you explained it very well, I listened to it twice. You’re doing a great job on this channel. I really enjoy your content. It has enough science to make it interesting and understandable but you don’t get too far into the weeds. Thanks man.

[@katy9860]

Vitamin D is very safe. Every sign that says, “wear a mask,” should also say know your vitamin D and supplement if needed. All Covid tests should come with a vitamin D test.

[@timshel011]

That makes too much sense... It will never work...

[@vincenzotca]

Not what this concluded. He said there may be a case for being outdoors. Vitamin d supplements didn’t do anything. Watch again

[@katy9860]

@@vincenzotca Look at more vitamin D research, the big short term doses aren’t that helpful in the short term. Which is also what makes it hard to get too much vitamin D. Yes, sun exposure is best but we’d all be better served by knowing our vitamin D levels and supplementing with consistent lower doses if sun exposure isn’t possible, like Sweden. The fact that our public health bureaucrats ignored vitamin D (either natural or supplements) is a good indicator that their goal was not to keep us all healthy.

[@berraloks]

@@vincenzotca in a not peer reviewed study lol all the other studies show people with low vitamin d have worse covid symptoms

[@timshel011]

@@vincenzotca Oh please , work with me. Don't be so obtuse...it's in jest.

[@zephsmith3499]

The mixture of scientific rigor and open minded consideration of alternatives which you present is truly excellent. You have been meticulous in distinguishing correlation from causation, plausible mechanisms of action from demonstrated mechanisms, informed speculation from proven interventions. I appreciate your promotion of sleep, sunlight, and even things like "forest bathing" as "there is reason to believe this might help and it's very unlikely to harm" as an alternative or complement to the "distill everything into a pill" approach - but you wait for confirmation before claiming effectiveness. What other channel can integrate both forest bathing and AT II ---> AT 1,7 via ACE2 pathways, each in their respective place? During the more acute phases of the pandemic, your channel was a breath of air which helped me process what was going on. I don't follow as closely now, but the sound of your opening music still evokes a very positive feeling in me, like a memory of seeing a light in a time of darkness. It's likely the strongest musical cue I have that takes me back to the depths of the pandemic (and probably still will a decade hence if I'm around), and I'm glad that it also invokes hope that with science and rationality, balanced by lack of dogma, we humans can persevere. Thank you!

[@Medcram]

So eloquent. Thank you!

[@wendybrown8860]

What a wonderful set of observations on this helpful (as always) Medcram video.

[@terjeoseberg990]

It’s simple. Severe Covid causes Vitamin D deficiency. Severe Vitamin D deficiency causes other problems. Replacing the Vitamin D solves those other problems, but doesn’t effects Covid itself. But solving those other problems can reduce your risk of death by those other issues that are caused by severe lack of Vitamin D. However, Covid can still kill you, and cause other severe issues.

[@spiral-m]

Yes, music is a BIG one!

[@scottclay4253]

Thank you for urging us to get natural sunlight, the fresh air will not hurt either. Being outside greatly improves mood and sense of well-being. Please continue to post your excellent content.

[@le832]

I’ve had a history of chronic bronchitis that lingers. I’ve also had a history of Vitamin D deficiency. A comprehensive medical exam in 2018 showed low Vitamin D and the doctor told me to take OTC Vitamin D. I did my research and started taking D3, but I wasn’t sure of the dosage. Anyway, I wasn’t really diligent and in 2019 I had a weird respiratory infection that lasted about six weeks. I recovered but when the COVID pandemic came about, I did more research and started taking 10,000 iu of D3 combined with K2. In 2022, I took a home Vitamin D test and my level was optimal at 76 ng/mL. Ironically, since 2020, I haven’t had one cold and zero respiratory issues. Also, coincidentally, I moved to a house with a very large back field in southern Nevada and walk my dogs every day. So starting in 2020, I was taking an increased dose of Vitamin D3 and getting more regular daily sunlight, not to mention taking daily Vitamin C and Zinc. Maybe it’s just a placebo effect but whatever it is, I’ll keep it up!

[@AmazingPhilippines1]

Great information of the health benefits of sunlight. Here in the Philippines, they have been telling everyone, especially those over 60, to stay indoors, and my thought was that it was the worst advice and restriction and I went out often.

[@biloz2988]

In the Philippines people have dark skin and the more sun, the more the skin is darker and it blocks the sun more. Best advice is to hv breakfast outdoors every morning

[@Benzknees]

Question is can you get enough NIR from going outside during the Winter in Northern countries? And if so how much exposure do you need?

[@eottoe2001]

My cardiologist told me that the vitamin D levels to him were a sign that there was more vulnerablity rather than the D itself. He wasn't against taking vitamin D, he saw it as an indicator. He wasn't sure why. This clears up a lot. Thanks for making and posting this video.

[@robinhood4640]

Low Vitamin D has always given me the impression of being the same as an engine check light on a car. There is something wrong that needs fixing and smashing the bulb will not fix it.

[@eottoe2001]

@C NB that's right but there are other components missing, too, from not getting enough sunshine or sleep. There might be something about not getting enough infrared light. If the Vitamin D isn't there it may mean the thing that make Covid or flu less deadly aren't there either.

[@alanbrown8476]

Exactly, it's a marker, it's not the cause. 25(OH)D should actually be low in winter, there is a very good reason for this. PPAR expression and good lipid metabolism needed in cold periods.

[@onthefringe7]

Low vitamin D is never a cause of disease. It is a consequence of disease,l. Vitamin D in serum (25D) has no biological activity and it’s primary function is as a substrate to make 1,25D the active form.

[@andrewstrakele6815]

A High Carbohydrate Diet, like the Standard American Diet, will deplete the Body of Vitamin D, the B Vitamins, Vitamin A, and other nutrients necessary for proper functioning of the Immune System. It not only interferes with absorption of Vitamin D, but the resulting High Blood Sugar and Blood Insulin spikes from such a Diet result in Oxidative Stress that leads to Systemic Inflammation, taxing the Immune System and making these deficiencies worse. Over Decades, the Hyperinsulinemia from a High Carbohydrate Diet causes Insulin Resistance, leading to Hypertension, Fatty Liver Disease, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease (not surprised your Cardiologist recognized the association), Cancer, Kidney Disease, Autoimmune Diseases, and Dementia/Alzheimer’s. Extra Sunshine Exposure and Supplementing Vitamin D can be ineffective if the Dietary Root Cause is not addressed. A Healthy Ketogenic Whole Foods Diet combined with Intermittent Fasting is the best way to manage Blood Sugar and Insulin while obtaining the essential nutrients for optimal health. 👍

[@TalonID]

I've been on 5000 IU for nearly 8 years. When I got C-19 in Jan-21, I doubled D, added Zinc, Magnesium & C. I missed 2, 1/2 days of work plus 1 full day for a total of 2 missed days. I was 57, reasonable health, pre-diabetic and just over the Obese line and live coastal SoCal. I rarely get sick. I did all of this because of a study at Harvard which a family member was aware of. That study was never released... It doesn't sit well with me that the protein ratios in C-19 are round numbers (not typical in natural similar viruses). Because of the ratios and how badly our government pushed for vaccinations, has made me not trust our government related to C-19.

[@RickPaquin]

If the govt. had pushed ALL known methods of resisting Covid in addition to the vaccine, such as methods to improve your own immune system, it would have been better regarded as an honest agent. But unfortunately, even before the vaccine came out, there was no mention about alternate methods that a person could do for themselves to help make their immune system sharp. Not even for minors. Today, if you don't want the flu, the vaccine is pushed as the ONLY solution. I remember researching the CDC flu vaccine efficacy tests for my age group and was shocked that it was less than 40% (depending on the strain). They demonstrated a huge bias toward only the pharmaceutical industry as the ONLY option to resist Covid or the Flu. I stopped getting sick when I got my Vit D and Zinc levels proper several years back Coincidence?? Not based on what others have also been reporting. I'm not anti vaccine, but I believe the govt. should have outlined all possible methods that people could do for themselves to help prevent Covid, even if these methods were not as good as the vaccine, AND our govt. should have leveled with us about the true efficacy of the Flu vaccine over the years as well. Our govt. should be our independent source of accurate information, not solely an extension arm of the pharmaceutical industry.

[@marcwilson3607]

That was succinct, informative, well organized and basically EXCELLENT ... Thank you for expanding funds of knowledge

[@Katrn30]

And yet most of his info was incorrect.

[@Grace-Upon-Grace]

@@Katrn30, what was incorrect plz?

[@jackielindsay7247]

I'm 78, haven't been vaxed, haven't had Covid19 and am on 50,000 iu a week due to an autoimmune disease. I believe that it's kept me well, I know that I've been exposed 3 times having had close contact. I'm certainly a believer.

[@artsmart]

I start to experience Seasonal affective disorder (S.A.D.)each year around late November/early December as our sunlight exposure drops significantly with the shortest days of the year. As the spring arrives my moods improve like clockwork. No doubt in my mind that sunlight is the elixir most of us crave and need. Good vid, thx.

[@TheDralaurita]

Excellent!!!! "sometimes these things that we find in nature are better packaged the way they are in nature" Love this, love the way you point out this, thanks a lot!!!!

[@elmanaro]

You are a real Doctor and Scientist. I salute you Dr, a true hero.

[@saeidnourian4237]

Amazing! There needs to be more videos like this to explain the studies. Thanks for the great work

[@todjordan604]

This is so important! The reduction of time in natural sun light, in conjunction with the increased time spent late at night, watching TV, cell phone use for information, social interaction, and videos is strongly negatively affecting health and mood in industrialized nations like our own seems clear from your research discussion Dr. Sehult - thank you!

[@dianed4190]

In addition to sunlight, we need total darkness for proper sleep. No nightlights, phone or tv screens, lit clockfaces, etc. ANY amount of light is disruptive to melatonin production, as every cell of the body can read light to our pineal gland. (Proven in a study by Univ of Chicago with a fiber optic light tube shining behind one knee of fully clothed and covered people - all melatonin production stopped!) Any part of the body detects any amount of light leaking into your room. Utter darkness and a cool room for optimum sleep. Hang heavy drapes. Think cave.

[@selwel1]

Good Morning Dr. Seheult, As always, I hope all is well with you and your family. Thank you for always communicating things so clearly. I've been listening to your reports/updates since the beginning of the Pandemic. What you have shared has been life changing and I often share what I learn to help others as we live through these very trying times. I'm an black male who embraced the profound evidence based conclusions regarding supplementing with higher doses of Vitamin D3. Based on the evidence being presented around the world my family increased our Vitamin D levels to 87ng/ml to 100ng/ml, at the very beginning of the Pandemic. We test our levels twice a year to ensure we main levels on the higher spectrum. I decided to put my trust in the research as billions of people do everyday with prescription medications. A, P-value of 0.001 is very significant. I decided to completely put my trust in what I concluded to be true, even down to the Indian study if we were ever exposed... outcomes proved highly beneficial within 3 days, attributed to optimum D levels as well. I'm an advocate for sun exposre, whoever, given our cultural realities around the world, adequate sun exposure for black people and people with darker skin tones in general is a major behavioral shift for not only the afore mentioned ethnic groups but for all groups, unless cultural norms dictate otherwise. However, in my efforts to defeat Vitamin D Deficiency globally, I have advocate for sun exposure (how ever much we may benefit as a race of people) in conjunction with optimized Vitamin D levels. I do have a few questions. Is the absorption and use of infrared radiation inhibited by darker skin as with UVB rays? If so, how much longer should people of color be exposed to sunlight in order to reap optimum benefit (mitochondria, melatonin, circadian)? Last question, If melatonin proves to be a blocker without prolonged sun exposure, does that mean, darker skinned people are limited once again due to the pigmentation of our skin color or should we drive and conduct additional trials on treating COVID-19 with doses similar to that in the Indian study, until we have a better treatment course? I ask this because black and brown people of all shades are still the highest risk groups of dying from COVID-19 because our Vitamin D levels are so very low? Lastly, what possible role does Vitamin D play in controlling ADE occurrence within monocytes causes massive inflammation all over the body? As always, THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING! Me along with millions of others truly appreciate every second you give towards informing us on what we need to do to get healthy and maintain our health. Concerned Global Citizen,

[@Medcram]

Darker skin does tend to block NIR slightly but not that much. The light should still penetrate down into the skin. You don’t even need to be in direct sunlight to receive the benefit - just be outdoors! Even wearing protective clothing will not stop NIR light. I recommend watching out video: Light as Medicine. kzbin.info/www/bejne/a4q5kJyBo993iMk

[@ChristiansPrayingTogether]

Wow ! This is so great to know that no matter the skin tone one will still get soooo many benefits from the Sun🌞🌞🌞🌞 I truly believe this. Enjoy your day and much blessings 🌅🏖️🌅🏖️🌅🏖️🌅🏖️

[@terjeoseberg990]

It’s simple. Severe Covid causes Vitamin D deficiency. Severe Vitamin D deficiency causes other problems. Replacing the Vitamin D solves those other problems, but doesn’t effects Covid itself. But solving those other problems can reduce your risk of death by those other issues that are caused by severe lack of Vitamin D. However, Covid can still kill you, and cause other severe issues.

[@selwel1]

@@Medcram Thank you so very much for your reply. I will get the word out. What role does Vitamin D3 play in controlling ADE response? or does it at all?

[@selwel1]

@@ChristiansPrayingTogether It is great! Health Education should be re-written for schools everywhere. Our children for generations to come will greatly benefit from what we're learning today. Have a great day👋🏾👋🏾👋🏾!

[@richardcanfield3125]

I had a heart attack at age 57 which was 12 years ago. Six months before m heart attack, my doctor told me I had an unusually low Vitamin D number. After my heart attack I began taking 10000 IU's and I have not had any heart problems since and I rarely get a cold and I have never had Covid. Coincidence? Who knows!

[@RickPaquin]

I don't think so. I spent 40 years working in buildings without sunlight or windows and became very Vit D deficient along with related health issues. Today, most doors and windows in businesses and homes contain glass that blocks UV rays you normally get from the sun, for energy conservation. That's a problem for both you and probably your pets. For the exception of Dr. Scheult, most doctors are also NOT into preventive medicine. A doctor's role is medical treatment when you get sick. So basically we're on our own when it comes to prevention, which makes Dr. Scheult's video's so valuable to me.

[@hystrionic]

Vitamin D cannot be absorbed if there is a co-existing magnesium deficiency. There might have been Mg deficiencies in some of the participants in the supplement-study Vitamin-D-group, if so their vitamin D levels wouldn't respond to supplements. Magnesium deficiency is shockingly common. The authors should have verified serum levels AFTER supplementation and stratified analysis according to change in vitamin D status.

[@taiwanjohn]

It would be nice to get some clarification on whether or not Melatonin supplementation addresses this issue. Also, what are the options for using an artificial light source as a substitute for direct sunlight?

[@mballer]

There are plenty of videos on KZbin.

[@nicoledburns82]

I have been taking vitamin d for many years as my level was at 9ng 5 years ago. I have been supplementing with an average of 5000ui since then and latest blood test showed my level now at 34ng a year ago. I have multivitamins along with extra d3 for my 3 kids. my 16 year old tested positive for covid in January and he then admitted to me he hadnt taken his vitamins. Out of 5 of us in the house, he was the only one who tested positive and was sick. The rest of us take vitamins including d3 and kept testing negative and never had any symptoms. I'm not saying its the Vitamins...but it really is too much of a coincidence not to believe personally.

[@EricAdamsonMI]

I've had similar luck, dodging symptomatic infection when others did not. Vitamin D likely prevents nothing -- it merely equips our immune system to do its job, minimizing infection severity. It's like water to a fireman.

[@terjeoseberg990]

It’s simple. Severe Covid causes Vitamin D deficiency. Severe Vitamin D deficiency causes other problems. Replacing the Vitamin D solves those other problems, but doesn’t effects Covid itself. But solving those other problems can reduce your risk of death by those other issues that are caused by severe lack of Vitamin D. However, Covid can still kill you, and cause other severe issues.

[@mballer]

I hate that the replies to your comment are not not being displayed.

[@nicoledburns82]

@@mballer I have no idea why either.

[@LGreen998]

Thank you for sharing this information. I take a multi vitamin and 5000 Vit D everyday and have fortunately not had COVID nor have I had my annual cold in 3 years. Melatonin caused severe diahrea for me so if it is not included in my multi-vitamin, I do not take it.

[@slippergal1]

I broke my ankle 3 years ago and I was diagnosed with Osteroperosis and low viatmin D levels. So I began taking 5,000iu of vitamin D3 daily. In the past I was always porne to upper-respiratory infections, but since starting vitamin D I've had far fewer colds (just one, compared to 3-4 per year) and the one I got did not leave me with bronchitis and coughing fits for weeks on end. After watching this video I'll try to get more UV as well.

[@JordanPriede]

This is my favourite video out of all you've produced.

[@Radarcb329]

I have also read that exercise improves how well Vitamin D is converted to the active form. When the seasons warm, people are much more likely to get more exercise outside than when they are bound inside. Certainly the Melatonin benefits are real, but is it the dominant effect. Does exercise produce internal MIR radiation? The body definitely gets warmer with exercise.

[@stephenvandulken6948]

I live in England and we don't get enough Vitamin D from sunlight for six months of the year. I took Vitamin D during the winter and, surprise, I was well while everyone else in my circle has been complaining of poor health.

[@markumbers5362]

Very good. Has the sanitising effect of sunlight on a persons clothes/skin been explored as well as home ventilation in colder climates. Old mouldy building interiors could be a problem especially with individuals that keep windows closed.

[@Eyes0penNoFear]

That's a great point. Indoor air is often many times more polluted than outdoors. That's a good reminder for me to open all the windows in my house when the weather warms up a bit more.

[@pineapplesoda]

I vividly remember older folks sunning themselves way back when I was a kid. Makes so much sense now! I'm setting up my laptop outside today :)

[@sapelesteve]

Yet another eye opening & very informative video Doc! As you correctly indicated, communing with Nature is more important now. Let's not forget about other aspects as well. Like staying active, eating a proper diet, exercising & having a positive outlook on life. Thanks for your videos! 👍👍👏👏

[@greenkrickett5664]

How can anyone have a positive outlook on life when our world is so divided on so many things (specially in the USA). I live among demons dressed as saints and getting out of the little Hell is impossible right now. All I know is my wife and I have BOTH been on Vit D supplements for the past 3 years and we BOTH wear our masks and have NOT gotten Covid 19 and we both work in the medical field at a Hospital. So take that as you will.

[@SoulJah1337]

@@greenkrickett5664 what else you want to do? Either stay positive or getting suicidal... i chose the first ! ;)

[@greenkrickett5664]

@@SoulJah1337 There is a middle ground you can fall into which is where I am. Not positive, but not negative just kind of numb.

[@solarnaut]

@@greenkrickett5664 , I hear you ! ... I hear Ocher, too ! And to Sapele, I want to mention my new line of "staying active, eat proper; exercise & positive outlook" PILLS ! ... they're actually apples that come in a "child safety" bottle that give you such a work out to open it'll put you flat on your back and have you LOOKING UP ! B-) Actually, I wanted to reply to your understandable despair with our great divide and devils dressed as saints remark by quoting a line I'd heard in the wake of 9/11 attributed to Paul Harvey ("In times like these it's good to remember there have always been times like these.") which at the time struck me as "too extreme," but the concept of context has mellowed me to it. I still don't know if/when he actually said it, but just now trying to search it, I find an amazon book "don't forget to sing in the lifeboats" which apparently also includes Bill Maher's version of the same notion : "If you think you have it tough, read history books."-Bill Maher In reality, just because somebody else has it worse, that doesn't make my life better . . . but it does tend to remind me of some of the AWESOME things about life I have on the daily that I'm taking for granted. It is natural for my mind to FOCUS on the things that are "wrong" in life, because, seemingly that's what needs the attention, but it is critical for the "physician, heal thy self," as they say, if you don't take adequate self care, then you won't be able to be of help to others. Being numbed to trauma may be a natural self preservation reaction and as a spiritually minded mate once told me "some days just not slipping backwards is a win." I've long claimed that given the choice between laughing at something and crying about it, I'd rather laugh... but increasingly I'm supposing I really need to do both. On a blue moon, when I realize my eyeballs are overdue for a good washing, I'll actually seek out a bittersweet video in youtube like the Brooklyn Duo (Piano & Cello) performing Canon in D or one of those Encroma (glasses for the color blind) where some tough all bastard who's been color blind for decades sees a sunset . . . oh, geez ... here come the water works . . . quick, somebody sing, please! B-)

[@greenkrickett5664]

@@solarnaut You go on and keep exercising (boring) and eating right (also BORING) -- I get what I need from gardening and working in the yard around the house. Don't need to lift weights, cardio etc to stay healthy. Food keeps changing on what is good what is bad so I eat what I want and will continue to do so. Besides world will be gone in less than a 100 years (for humans anyway).

[@momod7837]

Your Light as Medicine lecture was soooo good! One of my all time favorites ☀️

[@YURIKAVLAKOV1]

Thank you Dr. Seheult! You are truly an inspiration to us.

[@return2earthvideochannel]

Brilliant review and plain English explanation of NIR and its benefits. Dr Seheult MD deserves the medical equivalent of an Oscar!

[@100rubmighty]

My faith in scientists is restored when I listen to arguments such as yours. Science communicators, on the other hand, shame us for not accepting the obviously flawed conclusions some studies reach. They don't even understand the results and want brownie points for just associating themselves with science.

[@albertdowrn]

I enjoy your lectures so much! Thanks for the comment about humans trying to throw a pill at s problem. Second your recommendation for the Light as Medicine episode, I passed it on to a psychiatrist I work with as he is interested in light as therapy. Please consider a lecture on delirium as one of your Medcram lectures. As a former critical care nurse I think it would benefit new docs as well as other health care professionals.

[@Medcram]

Sundowning is what we call delirium in the intensive care unit as you know. We see this a lot when we put patients into hospital rooms that are dark and don’t have a lot of good light exposure during the day. We also leave the lights on at night so they become confused. We need to do a better job.

[@Dosadniste2000]

Thank you for all your work during this pandemic!

[@magsb3]

Even animals with fur like to lie in the sun. They know it is good for them as long as they don't get too hot. Fantastic video and really points the way forward.

[@bobtan9321]

Given the relatively safe profile of vitamin D, most doctors are still sleeping at the wheel. 3,200 IU is still a bit of a joke. A number of people I know take 5,000 IU, but most can't even reach 40ng/mL. I now take 7,000 IU to reach 50 ng/mL which appears to be the optimum level for your immune system. But even still, you need auxiliary supplements, zinc, melatonin, omegs 3, NAC, tumeric etc. And on top of that walk 30 minutes in the sun, wearing as much clothing as you can stand, to cause heavy sweating. You get both UVA and boosting of your interferon. And this is for free. Maybe the only way to really battle Covid, meaning not suffer long Covid, is to boost your immune system, which is not the same as vaccines, such as mRNA. These very specific vaccines leaves your body completely unprotected as the virus mutates.

[@larahuffmaster5857]

100%

[@babbsinbabeland]

My D level was 118 last year. MD had my PTH checked and was WNL so no worries but backing off on the 10K I was taking. ; Narry a cold in the past 2 years. Work with Cvid pts too. They never checked ICU pts D status. Saddest times ever for medicine. Thanks for your education!

[@janetclark5668]

It is sad. If I was a doctor I would want to assess VitD3 as a relevant marker in risk for the disease and the potential role of it in prevention. I would want it as part of data collection. According to my doctor -- in general health between 60--80 is a good range. Mine's been 86. (No Covid so far, no vax, 80 yrs old).

[@janetclark5668]

@Frances 👍 Isn’t it annoying that the “health experts” lump all older people into the same box as far as immunity goes . . .

[@amiehegeman]

Yes! this has been my experience too. I supplemented with 5K IU for over a year and although that helped and my level came up to 55, I still had a hard time with covid until I have saw your video on light as medicine. I started spending hours in the sun and daily sauna use and was able to finally recover from covid.

[@Medcram]

I suspected that this might be the case and I’ve already been telling my patients to get more sunshine and get outside.

[@judvu1926]

Even before watching the full video , I suggest that even Simple Simon could question whether all Vitamins D are equal . D3 and D2 are two separate forms that are synthesized differently . Another point is Vitamin D needs Magnesium to Transport it to the relevant Cells . It also needs other co - factors to maximise the effectiveness of any supplemental ingestion . Just saying ! ! !

[@dianed4190]

Which is why we should get our vitamins and other nutrients from food and sun, seldom from supplements on any regular basis.

[@judvu1926]

@@dianed4190 Do you know that vitamin D3 is not really a vitamin ? It's a Hormone . Vitamin D3 is only found in small amounts in food such as Fish Oil etc. D2is common in Vegetables etc. But has to be synthesized by Enzymes that convert it into D3 . Unfortunately 40%of us are unable to convert it sufficiently because of a condition that prevents our body from absorbing it . My point was the lack of details outlining whether D2 or D3 was the subject of the research . I just read a study that points out that D2 actually depletes D3 from our system resulting in this study being completely useless and not fit for the intended purpose . Med - Cram done a Video in February contradicting this one . D3 is the most effective form that is accepted by people in the know . Anything else is pointless in terms of therapy .

[@judvu1926]

@@dianed4190 Apart from not identifying type of D was used in research , they hadn't verified the before and after levels of Vitamin D in each subject . The levels used ( 3200 Iu's ) means it wasn't a therapeutic amount , 20 ,000 would have been the appropriate sum . Did you know some people living in Alaska take 50 , 000 ?

[@anomamos9095]

It’s not a paradox. If you’re about to jump off a bridge actually having the bungee cord attached before you jump is much better than someone throwing it to you as you fall. Having high serum levels of vitamin D before infection is very protective. Treatment with very high doses of the bio effective form of vitamin D has been trialed and has shown some benefit but usually it’s too little too late. It takes time for the body to build up serum levels especially when some infections actively block the vitamin D receptors. There is a danger that the impression that taking supplements won’t help there for don’t bother will be the message people get from reports about ineffectiveness. The message should have been screamed from the rooftops to take vitamin D. It’s the one proven thing that exceeds the efficacy of the jabs the masks the hand sanitizers and social distancing.

[@travisdemaria9027]

Yes! You’ve hit the nail on the head

[@robinhood4640]

I'm wondering if a more appropriate analogy for Vitamin D not being effective at improving things, if taken after, is that low vitamin D levels is simply the engine check light, and smashing the check light bulb with supplementation doesn't fix the problem.

[@MB031]

Great info ! You are the best Vit D guy I ever saw on YT !!

[@joemurray8902]

Nice video, well done. I didn't realize we use near infrared light as well. Do you (or can you) recommend an medical indoor light that will cover the safe spectrum of light that we need? Do they even exist?

[@mariadalziel1632]

Yes there is, listen to Jeffrey T Bowles interview about the miracle use of high dosages D3

[@spiral-m]

Maybe 30ng/ml should not have been the target, rather 50, which may have then had more impact. Maybe it also has something to do with delay before the body utilises it significantly. If the mean in the 2012 study in E. Africa was 40 something then at least that should be the starting point. But being outside, also in nature and plant-based whole-foods, community, stress reduction are all major factors for sure. I (anecdote) haven't been ill for 3 years. Zilch. Last time was a half-day cold. Unvaxed. I do all the above. Mid-winter: 61ng/ml. I take 20000 a week. occasionally 30.

[@barbarav4036]

Loved the clarification I get outside and walk the dog daily here in So Cal. Sit in the sun and take vit D supplements. You and Med Cram are awesome!

[@Paul-dorsetuk]

Brilliant, thank you. Can't convert it to a pill after all, always suspected that.

[@Endymion4242]

Thank you for continuing to provide these excellent presentations on COVID and health!

[@katydid9351]

Can you please put ads at the beginning and end? The video update on the BA5 variation had no ads. This one has had 7 ads before 25 minutes into your video. As a disabled person who needs to rest in bed when listening, I have to get up and dismiss the ads. Thank you so much.. Just discovered your channel and I have subscribed. I am impressed and grateful.

[@Mark-ml3nv]

It seems so obvious and in human's nature. I have a friend who recently was sick with Covid, a neighbour and it was a glorious sunny day and I told him he should spend time in the sun. He went back inside. He's had Covid 4 times now.

[@richarddavis1646]

Early lockdowns in the big cities in the US kept people indoors. Parks and forest preserves were closed. Kids could not play in playgrounds. Completely opposite of what should have happened, and this was known by many people at the time, but went unheeded by public health officials. On purpose.

[@indridcold4210]

I think everyone over the age of 40 should take melatonin. I even give my senior dog a melatonin tablet with her supper. I have taken 10mg at bedtime for nearly 20 years myself. I also take Listinopril which is an ACE2 inhibitor, making it even more important to take melatonin for me.

[@174paul]

Thank you digging deeper!

[@marymodaff3083]

I question the level of serum D in these studies. Isn't the "ideal" level more along the lines of 60-100ng/ml?

[@gignmechanik8482]

It is...

[@helenporter7584]

The natural level of African tribesmen is about 50 ng/ml. (Source Michael Holick).

[@celinamarie1034]

Excellent report!! I will even take notes. such helpful information and valuable for all aspects of life...just turned 55 and I sure can use this information in my life!!

[@JeliYYC]

It was interesting to see the correlation of Covid with the suppression of the ACE2 receptor. Question: are there any studies that look at Covid outcomes in people that take ACE inhibitors (used for reducing blood pressure) vs those that don’t?

[@grnddesign]

What are your thoughts about using a near infrared sauna? Would that provide the same benefits as being outside?

[@ChristiansPrayingTogether]

I have not been vaccinated and have not had Covid. I have children and have been exposed to many in my family and friends with Covid but still have not contracted it. I have been taking the suggested supplements since the start of the pandemic, I jog 1 hour each day outside, I also work outside as much as possible. I'm 53 years old. I'm fit n trim but no health fanatic, I enjoy my sweets and creamy coffees but eat tons of vegetables too. I'm nothing special, but have made it thru this pandemic in fantastic health and I believe vitamin D has helped my children and I - btw none of my kids have had Covid either, they are in their teens, they take the same vitamins . We also eat alot of fresh garlic ( No wonder - ha! Ha! ) Thank you doctor, I listened to you from the start of the pandemic, I also still irrigate nasal passages with hot water and take hot showers. I'm not rich at all, a single mom, so I'm not at the gym( can't afford that) my gym is jogging out under the blue skies with the birds and the bees - there's no better gym than mother nature. God bless and thank you 🙏💖🙏💖

[@shelleycharlesworth5177]

Use WARM salt water - never HOT - to irrigate your nose. I do that and have not missed a day since 1995. Since starting nasal washing 26 years ago I have only had the flu once and only about 4 colds! I used to get 4 colds every winter. Since reading about how eating raw garlic daily helps our immune system back in 2017, I have been "pickling" raw garlic and eating 3 cloves a day! I also take d3, k2, zinc, magnesium and vit C.

[@bartsonson]

thanks for breaking down all that scientific literature into such easy to understand language. Awesome!

[@MrCalifornia1234]

I’ve ridden over 4000 on my bike outside this pandemic. My whole family got delta and got very sick. I tested positive. Had no symptoms.

[@eottoe2001]

Me, too.

[@Gsxrtrix]

I workout 6x week (cardio 1 hour of step-mill and resistance 1 hour) like crazy. Covid messed me up pretty bad. Very sick unfortunately. Still feel symptoms after 2 months - aches, chills…

[@mballer]

@@Gsxrtrix perhaps move your step mill outside.

[@kaiduponte4091]

This is fascinating information shared in a way I can understand, thank you!

[@WarmWeatherGuy]

Thumbs up! I still wish you would understand how vitamin D goes through the body. The goal is not to get 25(OH)D3 levels up. The goal is to get 1,25(OH)2D3 to the VDRs to effect gene expression. The 25 form is the WORST form for this due to being tightly bound to VDBP. D3 itself enters cells where the 2 conversions take place allowing the 1,25 form to make it to the VDRs but D3 has a half-life of around 24 hours. The "paradox" disappears when you understand this. Please read The Role of the Parent Compound Vitamin D with Respect to Metabolism and Function: Why Clinical Dose Intervals Can Affect Clinical Outcomes.

[@oibal60]

I Google'd it and found this article everywhere. I downloaded it from JCEM. It's the one by Hollis and Wagner.

[@WarmWeatherGuy]

@@oibal60 Dr. Hollis gives a great KZbin presentation of the paper in a video titled "Dr. Bruce Hollis - Vitamin D Dosing Interval" on the KZbin channel vitaminDaction.

[@wendyyu6729]

Super important findings! Thank you so much for sharing this!!!

[@louisezaros1616]

Low E glass windows, led bulbs, sunscreen too. World getting rid of incandescent bulbs. Sicker people.

[@kayakutah]

Vitamin D is "low hanging fruit". It's one of those things that won't hurt (in reasonable amounts) and most people need as a supplement. If it has a beneficial effect on COVID outcomes, I figure that's "gravy"! I'm older and took 5000iu per day but that only got me to 27 ng/ml, so my doctor has me at 10000iu. I'll have it checked again in a couple of months. And I'm getting my NIR, too! 😁

[@dulynoted2427]

Take 1 part vitamin K2 to 2 parts vitamin D3. The k2 helps deliver calcium out of the arteries into the bone.

[@joanjust8241]

Vitamin D has at least 200 receptor sites. I don’t know but appears important to me.

[@firegardendevine6039]

Are you taking your D with K2 and magnesium? May want to research vitamin K2 and it's synergy with D3 absorption. Same for Mg.

[@kazzicup]

@@firegardendevine6039 You are wise. Best to take vitamin D and K2 together.

[@ajianalajian6243]

Some doctors say magnesium is needed to increase vitamin d level not the dose alone.. Please check with your doctor.. Good wishes to you

[@kathyhagan8444]

So interesting! Sometimes I have to listen twice to take it all in❤️

[@bennystokes8481]

its weird because prior to covid - 19 i started taking vitamin d3 every day and i havent caught covid despite being high risk..and mostly mask free due to having copd and asthma.

[@bennystokes8481]

i was also high dosing up to 10,000mg per day..not had a sniffle since november 2019 but funnely enough i did catch a virus 5 weeks after having my pacemaker fitted and that led to diagnosing permanent high blood pressure of which i have to take meds to control....but no covid

[@bennystokes8481]

but i also grow weed under led lighting and take thc oil on a daily basis..however i do suffer chronic pain and arthritis and fibromyalga.

[@Winstonsmom]

Question... will a grow light have the same effect? I totally get your point that sunlight is best. I happen to have one in my office and wonder if it's as good for me as it is for my houseplants. TIA

[@amdenis]

It’s a simple one to solve- when trying to invoke a rapid response, it takes a much higher initial dosing. First, it takes a bit of time to ramp-up melatonin and related levels and also at least 6000 IU upon acute onset to make a difference, which is substantially higher than many using/testing Vit-D in response rather prophylactically. Some use 10,000 IU for the first and second day, and then start trailing down to about 4,000 IU. There is a reason why hospitals often use a one-time massive 50,000 IU dose upon admittance (for entire week), and why 2,400 - 3,200 IU upon acute onset see little benefit. Also, that BJD is NOT independent of the Vitamin D pathway, since creation of Vit-D from sun is NOT an on/off switch. When you positively correlate it with sunlight exposure- even at slightly higher latitudes, you are STILL correlated with Vitamin-D exposure, as noted in that report.

[@slippin_jimmy]

Do you think taking NAC as a supplement could work synergisticly with sunlight exposure in terms of antioxidant effects, given that NAC increases glutathione levels?

[@Rali272]

i have long covid and been taking that for like a year. Helping me so much

[@stuartdryer1352]

Another correction I should point out. It is almost certainly not "intracellular" melatonin that matters (a term you used in this video). Instead melatonin is a circulating hormone released from the pineal and retina (to a lesser extent) that acts on cell surface G protein-coupled receptors. In other words, it's primary effect is exerted in extracellular space. It does have antioxidant effects but those occur at concentrations orders of magnitude above physiological. And there are other things to keep in mind too. If people take massive doses of melatonin, or if they take it during the day, there is evidence that it can promote insulin resistance. In other words, melatonin is a nocturnal endocrine signal and any discussion of it has to keep that fact front and center. One problem with the long thread of speculations that you wired together in this video is that it can lead to the same sorts of extrapolations they caused people to jump onto the chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine bandwagon without critically evaluating the cell and molecular data upon which it was based. One of the early covid-19 Medcram videos certainly contributed to that. Edit added, as for me and my qualifications to make this particular comment, I have published a lot of peer-reviewed papers on the pineal melatonin system and other aspects of circadian biology in my academic career. They are all freely available with simple searching.

[@rogerseheult1312]

Yeah, I'm against taking melatonin as a supplement to get this effect (OK for sleep if needed). The paper referenced is pretty clear about the "orders of magnitude" higher levels of intramitochrondrial melatonin production and that effect on reactive oxygen species.

[@garzascreek]

Stuart Dyer - It would be worthwhile for you to review the second part of the referenced _Sunlight: Optimize Health and Immunity (MedCram)_ kzbin.info/www/bejne/a4q5kJyBo993iMk to update your knowledge regarding mitochondrial melatonin.

[@chrislastnam6822]

hydroxychloroquin brings zinc into cells so it must have antiviral effects

[@pn2543]

amazing detective work, incredible that such a simple thing like benefits of sunlight is so difficult to figure out exactly

[@robertallair7278]

Fascinating! I have read many things over the years that seemed to indicate health benefits from being out in the sun, yet all of the emphasis was on the danger of UVB exposure. This could be the explanation! Avoid UVB, but get lots of NIR! The anti-oxidative effect of melatonin also raises questions about melatonin supplementation. Thanks! I’m going outside now.

[@olivia8979]

Do you have any recommendations on what we should do in the winter? I understand the NIR can penetrate clothes, but if we are all bundled up with multiple layers and thick coats, hats and gloves is anything penetrating? And if it is bitter cold outside, we are not wanting to spend a lot of time outdoors. If we are outside March-October, can we store up enough to get us through the winter? Also, are there any benefits to getting vitamin D from natural sources such as liver, sardines, etc instead of supplements?

[@xx_Joker_xx]

Thank you so much for putting this information out there. I have been an advocate of sunlight for the improvement of mental health for a long time. I realize people are terrified of skin cancer... however, there is so much to be benefited from natural light. In today's world, kids are inside most of the time as well as others working indoors. Could this be causing at least some of the issues with mental health that we are now seeing? I've also read that fluorescent lighting can actually cause a reduction in vitamins in the body. Can anyone verify that and what vitamins are reduced?

[@wishingb5859]

For those of us who have worked the night shift and who don't sleep well and who don't get a lot of sunlight, it is a conundrum.

[@returnofmerenguespersempre]

Since obese people have a lot of subcutaenous fat (which binds vitamin D to fatty tissue) it could perhaps explain why they are more prone to develop serious disease even though they take supplements. Second, it takes some time before vitamin d is broken down by the liver into a substance that increases your ng/mL (forgot what its exact name was but its used intravenously to patients who need a instant boost of vitamin d in blood system. So your lifestyle is more than a factor.

[@gribbler1695]

Most of the things people take to boost their immune system, such as vitamins or supplements, don't have any effect on your immune response. Ref: Can You Really Boost Your Immune System? Cedars-Sinai Obesity leads to cardiovascular disease and diabetes, which may be causing the increased mortality from COVID-19.

[@MrsShimmyOnDown]

@@gribbler1695 You have to be kidding, right? *Of course* vitamins and supplements have an effect on your immune response.

[@gribbler1695]

@@MrsShimmyOnDown Read the reference. The immune system is very complex, and we may not have a lot of control over how the immune system functions. Am I treading on naturopathic toes?

[@MrsShimmyOnDown]

@@gribbler1695 I am a RN with 25 years work experience here in Germany and I regularly read scienctific publications. To claim that vitamins and supplements don't have an effect on immunity is BS. I would venture the document you refer to is a pharma industry propaganda piece.

[@returnofmerenguespersempre]

@@MrsShimmyOnDown Just read his comment, work in health care as well. Ignore that guy and move on. You can only chuckle at that statement. As a point of reference, farma managed to "character assassinate" one of safest, nobeI prize-winning medicines in world we used for 40 years thanks to a biased study that administrated medicine in a (far too) advanced stage of a lets just say *pretty common occuring disease nowadays* and therefore procIaimed the medicine useIess. I am sure you know which medicine I refer to and so on. So people, if you see a study that tries to deny 100 years of common sense you can bet its bought and paid for. Soon we will have a "scientific" study on how up is actually down and how its good for you to eat cyanide every morning.

[@gregthebaritone]

The problem with the UK study is that there is a difference between throwing vitamin D at someone and treating a vitamin D deficiency. When I was first diagnosed with a severe deficiency about 8 years ago (7ng/ml) I was started out on very high doses of vit D (I don't exactly remember, but I believe it was either 15000 IU/day or maybe even 25000) After three months, my level had gotten above 30 ng/ml and I was able to go onto a smaller dose for maintenance, which turns out to be 5000 UI to keep my levels normal. Just giving someone 3200 units might not be meaningful. How long were they on this dose? The more important measurement would be what the vit D level in their blood was. If this dose raised them from 10 to 15, it wouldn't be of much benefit. Subjects should be given doses to achieve a certain level, and their response should be measured against that level, not some dosage that could affect some differently from others. Since my vit D levels have been normal, I have not had a lower respiratory (lung) infection, and in addition, my migraines have gone away. Maybe the tests should include categories of people with naturally normal vit D vs people with supplemented normal vit D?

[@EricAdamsonMI]

Given that the RDA's for vitamin D are hilariously low, 3200 IU dosage is laughable. I only take 5,000 IU normally, but will not hesitate to take 10.000 or 20,000 IU when I first feel an illness coming on. (I also take 1-200 mcg vitamin K2.) I believe that we'll find that vitamin D sees heavy demand -- explaining why, despite being fat- soluble, we don't often see toxic accumulation, or even secondary hypercalcemia.

[@sarafarid8952]

Doesn't K2 aid in clotting? Or is that just K?

[@davehanson6424]

@@sarafarid8952 K1

[@josephvictory9536]

This is a really great point, thanks for sharing.

[@EricAdamsonMI]

@@sarafarid8952 K promotes clotting. K2 supports calcium transport (and more.) I've already seen one fluff article about how "Vitamin K can help prevent dementia" -- only to dig deeper and find reference to MK-7 -- which is a form of K2. No wonder everyone's confused!

[@sarafarid8952]

@@EricAdamsonMI thank you. So if I am taking 1000 IU of vitamin D,.25 mcg how much of K2 should I take then?

[@raraavis7782]

Fascinating stuff. Your work is much appreciated 🙏

[@susanwoodward7485]

Superb presentation. So appreciate you addressing the science that supports our common sense as it relates to healing. There is immense intelligence within all life forms, but the ego and intellect often interfere. This reminds me of Stephanie Seneff's work on sunlight and cholesterol sulfate, which is certainly relevant. Makes one consider the possible huge benefits that could be accrued from having solariums/conservatories (complete with plants) in hospitals and rehabilitation facilities - a low-cost effective therapy, not only for the patients, but the highly stressed staff.

[@belvedere92]

How about a week in the sun every 6 weeks?

[@susanwoodward7485]

@@belvedere92 Obviouslym, but I was speaking more for people in hospitals or recovery facilities needing therapeutic rather than preventive strategies.

[@mballer]

How about outdoor parks and patio areas?

[@mballer]

Even prisons require outdoors time.

[@jdenmark1287]

There are a couple of things going on here: 1. People have different abilities to utilize vitamin D depending upon SNPs in their genetics. 2. That inability to utilize vitamin D results in downstream issues that will impair their ability to effectively deal with ARIs.

[@Holy_Athletics]

Also, the study said it have people 3500 ? That seems a little low. I take 5k a day.

[@timdaniels2100]

Great stuff ! Good job explaining it in layman terms too. I seem to remember something about the angle of the sun during certain times of the year in North America (above the equator) limiting the amount of D absorption. Less during winter, I think.

[@lizeggar2421]

Above the 74 parallel. UK is mostly above. I have been taking cod liver oil as a supplement for decades. I have also been taking 4000iu vitamin D daily since very early in the pandemic. I had hardly any symptoms when I had Omicron.

[@great-garden-watch]

What should we do about sunscreen? I honestly don’t know what to do

[@the.real.ciaomich]

This is my favorite medcram video so far! I love learning about light, especially light not in the visible spectrum. I have intuitively been drawn to being outside and now I know why! I feel SO MUCH BETTER. Thanks for making this easy to understand and share with others!

[@VeganLinked]

I eat whole plant foods and haven't been sick since COVID. I get ample sunshine and supplement D when I don't. I even quarantined with my wife when she got it and still didn't get it. She was vaccinated and I wasn't. Go figure....since covid I have traveled more than ever, I have even eaten out more than ever. It like everything is cleaner than ever since COVID so in some ways it's safer than ever to go out.

[@jtboehler3714]

Not just covid 20 or below are a predictor of many sicknesses, diseases, and even cancer. So any situation it's important to keep D levels in the 30-50 range.

[@tariqqurashi3527]

Great video! I was wondering whether NAC supplementation would also help in this instance?