Vitamin D plays an important role in bone health, cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. If you are HIV-positive, you may be at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency because certain medications appear to lower vitamin D levels, according to AIDSmeds.com.
Vitamin D Synthesis
Vitamin D is known as the "sunshine" vitamin because exposure to ultraviolet B radiation from the sun synthesizes vitamin D in the human body. This vitamin is present naturally in very few foods. Some foods, including milk and breakfast cereal, are commonly fortified with vitamin D.
Role of Vitamin D
Vitamin D plays a major role in supporting your immune system. In fact, the Linus Pauling Institute postulates that flu season occurs in the winter months because exposure to the sun is low and the immune system is not getting enough vitamin D to protect the body. Vitamin D is important for calcium regulation and bone health. It is also a major player in regulating cell growth and energy metabolism.
HIV and Vitamin D
According to the National AIDS Treatment Project, vitamin D also determines how mature T-cells are going to function. T-cells are the lymphocytes that are attacked and destroyed by the HIV virus. Vitamin D may enhance innate immunity, meaning it may help produce more immune cells. In a study published in the November 2008 issue of "AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses," patients with low vitamin D levels were more likely to have low CD4 counts and progression of their disease. The researchers also noted that those taking anti-retroviral medications were more likely to be vitamin D deficient.
Vitamin D Deficiency
An expert panel representing The Endocrine Society recommends that adults who are HIV-positive increase their vitamin D intake to 6,000 to 10,000 IU a day. The panel also recommends that adults who are HIV-positive and taking anti-retroviral medications have routine screening for vitamin D deficiency.
References
- AIDSmeds.com; Panel Issues New Guidelines on Ideal Vitamin D Levels; June 2011
- Linus Pauling Institute; Vitamin D; Jane Higdon, Ph.D., et al.; March 2004
- "Science News"; From Muscle Strength to Immunity, Scientists Find New Vitamin D Benefits; J. Raloff; October 2004
- NAM Aidsmap: High Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency in Patients With HIV; M. Carter; December 2008
- "AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses"; Vitamin D Deficiency Among Hiv Type 1-infected Individuals in the Netherlands: Effects of Antiretroviral Therapy; C.J. Van Den Bout-Van Den Beukel, et al.; November 2008
Member Comments