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Can Optimum Solar Radiation Exposure or Supplemented Vitamin D Intake Reduce the Severity of COVID-19 Symptoms?

Author

Listed:
  • Joji Abraham

    (School of Engineering, Information Technology and Physical Sciences, Mount Helen Campus, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia)

  • Kim Dowling

    (School of Engineering, Information Technology and Physical Sciences, Mount Helen Campus, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia
    Department of Geology, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg 2006, South Africa)

  • Singarayer Florentine

    (School of Science, Psychology, and Sport, Centre for Environmental Management, Mount Helen Campus, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia)

Abstract

The foremost mortality-causing symptom associated with COVID-19 is acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). A significant correlation has been identified between the deficiency in vitamin D and the risk of developing ARDS. It has been suggested that if we can reduce or modify ARDS in COVID-19 patients, we may significantly reduce the severity of COVID-19 symptoms and associated mortality rates. The increased mortality of dark-skinned people, who have a reduced UV absorption capacity, may be consistent with diminished vitamin D status. The factors associated with COVID-19 mortality, such as old age, ethnicity, obesity, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes, are all found to be linked with vitamin D deficiency. Based on this review and as a precautionary measure, it is suggested that the adoption of appropriate and safe solar exposure and vitamin D enriched foods and supplements should be considered to reduce the possible severity of COVID-19 symptoms. Safe sun exposure is deemed beneficial globally, specifically in low and middle-income countries, as there is no cost involved. It is also noted that improved solar exposure and vitamin D levels can reduce the impact of other diseases as well, thus assisting in maintaining general human well-being.

Suggested Citation

  • Joji Abraham & Kim Dowling & Singarayer Florentine, 2021. "Can Optimum Solar Radiation Exposure or Supplemented Vitamin D Intake Reduce the Severity of COVID-19 Symptoms?," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(2), pages 1-21, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:18:y:2021:i:2:p:740-:d:481567
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    Citations

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    Cited by:

    1. Joji Abraham & Christopher Turville & Kim Dowling & Singarayer Florentine, 2021. "Does Climate Play Any Role in COVID-19 Spreading?—An Australian Perspective," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(17), pages 1-14, August.
    2. Shiran Zhong & Fenglong Ma & Jing Gao & Ling Bian, 2023. "Who Gets the Flu? Individualized Validation of Influenza-like Illness in Urban Spaces," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(10), pages 1-16, May.

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