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Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to reduced immune system, as well as hair loss and bone pain. But scientists have claimed that the so-called ‘sunshine’ vitamin could help to protect against the deadly complications of coronavirus. The Government is now preparing a scheme to give England’s two million clinically vulnerable patients free supplies of vitamin D supplements.
Vitamin D is “critical to immune function”, according to Imperial College London’s Dr Gareth Davies.
When vitamin D levels are at their highest, the immune system is working at its top function.
Scientists have also revealed that vitamin D plays a key role in protecting the body against the deadly COVID-19 virus.
As a result, the Government is now plotting a nationwide scheme to hand all clinically vulnerable patients stocks of vitamin D.
Ministers are drawing up plans to give four-month supplies of vitamin D to individual patients and care home residents.
The free supplements will last for the entirety of the winter season.
It’s believed that the public are more likely to be infected with coronavirus during the winter months.
The Government’s latest move follows a similar strategy that’s already been put in place by the Scottish Government.
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“We are going to make sure those most in need of vitamin D can access a free supply over the winter months,” a senior Government source told The Telegraph.
“Some studies suggest vitamin D supplementation could have a positive impact for people suffering with COVID-19.”
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has already confirmed that the Government is assessing the benefits of using vitamin D supplements.
He said last week in the House of Commons: “We are indeed looking at the possible beneficial effects of vitamin D, and we will be updating the House shortly.”
There are more than two million people in England that are classed as extremely vulnerable.
They have been issued with individual guidance for the following months, as England starts its month-long lockdown.
The extremely vulnerable group includes those are that undergoing cancer treatment, those that are immunosuppressed, or those with an underlying health condition.
The NHS has recommended that everyone takes vitamin D supplements during the winter months, regardless of the coronavirus outbreak.
The body struggles to produce enough vitamin D during winter, due to the axis of the earth and reduced daylight hours.
Everyone should consider taking a 10mcg vitamin D supplement from September to March.
You could also top up on vitamin D by spending more time in direct sunlight. The sun prompts the body to naturally produce vitamin D3.
Alternatively, you can top up on vitamin D by eating more oily fish, eggs, or mushrooms.
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