Low Vitamin D & COPD

Low vitamin D has been linked to a variety of health problems. Patients with COPD and vitamin D deficiency could experience complications of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and may even benefit from boosting levels. Higher levels of vitamin D might improve muscle strength, quality of life and slow progression of the disease, according to the "American Thoracic Society." Optimal level of vitamin D for COPD and other diseases is the subject of much research. Supplementation should be discussed with your physician.

Muscle Strength

Debilitation that stems from COPD can make it difficult to cough and clear the airways, leading to poor oxygen exchange. According to scientists from the Respiratory Division, University Hospital Gasthuisberg; and Clinic and Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Endocrinology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium, vitamin D supplements improved respiratory muscle strength in COPD patients, compared with those given placebo or no vitamin D. Further studies were recommended.

Lung Function

A July 2005 study from the Department of Medicine, University of Auckland showed a direct relationship between serum concentrations of 25-hydroxy vitamin D -- the circulating form of the vitamin - and lung function. Since then, mouse studies have shown vitamin D deficiency alters the structure of the lungs, according to February 2011 findings published by Australian researchers.

Immunity

Low vitamin D status is linked to lower immunity that puts COPD patients at higher risk for hospitalization from respiratory infections. Researchers from Universiteit Leuven, Belgium speculate vitamin D could aid COPD patients by reducing inflammation in the airways and boosting immune fighting cell function, based on epidemiological studies.

Vitamin D and COPD Treatment

Vitamin D could also be important as a treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In January 2009, University of Pennsylvania researchers reported calcitriol, a form of vitamin D, halted changes associated with declining lung function in COPD and asthma, known as airway remodeling. They also found vitamin D had an anti-inflammatory effect on the airways that reduced the amount of sputum production.

Guidelines and Warning

Current guidelines for vitamin D intake from the National Institutes of Health for adults age 19 to 70 is 600 IU daily. Older adults should obtain 800 IU daily. Vitamin D comes from sun exposure, fortified foods, fatty fish and fish liver oils and supplements. COPD patients are often prescribed medications known as corticosteroids that can interfere with vitamin D synthesis. A blood test can determine vitamin D deficiency. Boosting vitamin D levels might be an important part of COPD management and treatment. Studies are ongoing.