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Vitamin D and outdoor activity linked to respiratory health
As daylight hours decrease and temperatures drop, people spend more time indoors, which can increase the risk of respiratory infections such as colds and the flu. Research suggests that lifestyle habits and nutritional status play roles in immune health during the autumn and winter months.
According to the German Nutrition Society (DGE), an umbrella review of 73 studies indicates a statistical correlation between Vitamin D levels and the risk of acute respiratory infections. The findings suggest that individuals with lower Vitamin D status may face a higher risk of infection, implying that adequate supplementation might offer a possible preventive effect, though it is not a guaranteed protection.
Additionally, experts emphasize the importance of spending time outdoors. Statistics show that individuals spend approximately 80 to 90 percent of their daily time in enclosed spaces, which can negatively impact overall well-being and health.
Entities
Federal Institute for Risk Assessment · German Nutrition Society