Study: Vitamin D Improves Lung Function

CHEVY CHASE, Md.Vitamin D may improve lung function and protect against tuberculosis (TB), suggests a new study accepted by The Endocrine Societys Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. Published in the journal's April 2013 issue, the large-scale study found a clear connection between vitamin D blood levels and lung function (J Clin Endocrinol Metab. March 26, 2013 jc.2012-3901).

Using more than 10,000 Korean adults, researchers found subjects with a history of TB had significantly lower levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D)regardless of age, gender or lifestyle. When 25(OH)D levels rose, lung function improved, providing a benefit for TB patients.

In March, multiple studies were published touting the sunshine vitamin's potential benefits. Boston University researchers found improved vitamin D status significantly affected gene expression associated with cancer, autoimmune disorders and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Similarly, a study published in Hypertension linked vitamin D supplementation to lowered blood pressure in African Americans.