Researchers have recommended paying attention to vitamin D, considering it an essential element to boost the immune system and fight respiratory infections, and experts believe that it is necessary to pay attention to eating foods rich in this vitamin to relieve acute forms of "Covid-19".

In a statement published by the French University of Angers on January 18, 73 experts and 6 scientific societies recommended that vitamin D be given to people with the emerging coronavirus in order to boost immunity.

The French newspaper "Le Figaro" reviews some foods that provide us with abundant amounts of vitamin D and help us boost immunity in light of the continuing outbreak of the "Covid-19" epidemic.

This is not a substitute for the recommended precautionary measures, especially leaving the safety distance to avoid infection and getting the vaccine.

1- Fatty fish

Herring, mackerel, sardines and salmon are very rich in vitamin D.

2- Dairy products

One of the most important sources is also fortified with vitamin D milk, whether it is animal or vegetarian, so do not hesitate to consume plant-based oat milk, almond milk, soy or rice to cover your daily needs.

Butter and cheese also contain vitamin D.

3- Carcasses and egg yolks

Carcasses, such as the liver, kidneys, heart, pancreas, spinal cord, brain and tongue, are very rich in proteins, minerals and vitamins, especially vitamin D, which we also find in egg yolks.

All you need to know about vitamin D.

Vitamin D is not a single chemical substance, but rather includes a group of substances, including vitamin D2 and D3, and vitamin D3 is the type that is made in the skin when a person is exposed to sunlight, and it is also found in animals, and non-animal sources such as fungi and yeasts mainly produce vitamin Di 2.

Vitamin D is important in the absorption of calcium and phosphate, and is essential for healthy bones and muscles.

Maintaining healthy levels of vitamin D contributes to helping the absorption of calcium from food, and reducing the occurrence of bone fractures and bone fragility in adults in the event of a daily dose of it.

And for children;

It helps build strong bones, and prevents rickets that cause arched legs, knees and weak legs.

Vitamin D is formed in the body as a result of exposure to UV rays (B) from the sun. It can also be obtained from fatty fish, as well as from egg yolks, beef liver, and fortified foods such as grains and milk.

Vitamin D deficiency is widespread, with nearly a billion people of all ages and ethnicities suffering from this deficiency, even in countries where the sun shines year-round.

Often there are no noticeable symptoms of mild vitamin D deficiency, but a person may feel symptoms such as difficulty thinking clearly, bone pain, multiple fractures, muscle weakness, and constant fatigue.

 How do we measure it?

One of the most accurate ways to measure vitamin D is a 25-hydroxy test in the blood. The ratio of 30 nanograms / milliliter to 50 nanograms / milliliter is sufficient for healthy people, and a ratio of 12 nanograms / milliliter or less is considered a vitamin D deficiency, according to the Hamad Foundation Medical in Qatar.

The best way to get vitamin D is to eat foods rich in it, in addition to supplements, most of which contain 400 international units (IU) of vitamin D.

Public Health England recommends a ration for adults and children over one year of age of 400 international units (10 micrograms) per day.

This is a general number, and to be sure of your daily need, see your doctor.

Vitamin D supplements are taken only after consulting a doctor, when a person has a deficiency in Vitamin D and is not able to obtain an adequate amount from other sources such as sunlight and food.

According to the Chamber of Pharmacists in the German state of Lower Saxony, vitamin D supplements should only be taken under the supervision of a doctor.

Because an excessive amount may lead to an increased feeling of thirst and an increased urge to urinate, as well as a feeling of nausea or weakness.

And vitamin D supplements, if used incorrectly, may cause more harm than good, and this applies to all nutritional supplements.

Some people may need more than the recommended food ration, such as those with obesity or taking anti-seizure or immunosuppressants or anti-fungal medicines such as "ketoconazole" or AIDS drugs, so it is important to consult a doctor before starting this. .

Excessive intake of vitamin D - more than 10,000 international units per day - may damage the kidneys and tissues, and lead to hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels).