Vitamin D may help keep long COVID at bay, study suggests

• About every six in 100 people who have COVID-19 go on to develop post-COVID-19 condition, dubbed ‘long COVID.’
• There is currently no cure for long COVID and anyone who is infected with the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 can develop it.
• Past studies show that certain lifestyle choices, such as following a healthy diet, may help reduce a person’s long COVID risk.
• A new study found that while vitamin D supplements may not reduce the severity of COVID-19, they may help reduce a person’s risk of developing long COVID.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about every six in 100 people who have COVID-19 go on to develop post-COVID-19 condition, also known as long COVID.

Previous research shows that long COVID symptoms can last from 3 months to as long as a few years. Common symptoms of long COVID include constant fatigue, respiratory problems like a chronic cough or shortness of breath, “brain fog,” sleeping issues, headache, digestive issues like diarrhea and stomach pain, joint pain, depression, and anxiety.

There is currently no cure for long COVID. Symptoms are managed through medications and treatments for specific symptoms, such as physical therapy, cognitive rehabilitation, pulmonary rehabilitation, and mental health interventions.

Anyone who is infected with the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 can develop long COVID. However, older adults, those with severe COVID-19, and people with underlying health conditions are generally at a higher risk of developing long COVID.

Past studies show that certain lifestyle choices, such as maintaining a healthy body weight, being physically active, prioritizing sleep, and avoiding smoking, may help reduce a person’s long COVID risk.

Now, a new study published in The Journal of Nutrition has found that, while vitamin D supplements may not reduce the severity of a COVID-19 infection, they may help reduce a person’s risk of developing long COVID.