Scientists have known that vitamin D plays a role in protecting the body from infection. And recently, researchers at the University of California, San Diego, have discovered some of the ways that vitamin D helps wounded skin resist infection and begin the normal repair process.

Using skin cultures, they found that vitamin D3, the active form of the vitamin, helps the skin cells that surround a wounded area to produce an immunity-enhancing substance called cathelicidin. This substance fights bacteria, fungi and viruses. And it can bind to and neutralize the toxins produced by some microbes.

Your skin provides an important first barrier against infection because it offers something called “innate” immunity, meaning it can react immediately to pathogens. It doesn’t need to wait for the go-ahead from “immune central” to attack.

A deficiency in vitamin D3 may compromise that innate immune system, making a person more vulnerable to all sorts of microbes. Low levels of D3 have been associated with increased susceptibility to serious infections, like tuberculosis. (J Clin Invest doi: 101172/JCI30142.)

New research suggests that many older people don’t get adequate vitamin D, which can leave them vulnerable to a host of health problems. As research evidence grows, some researchers are advocating 1,000 IU a day as an optimal dose.

Our Multi-Nutrient Formula contain 1,000 IU of vitamin D3 (as cholecalciferol). Most multis contain only 200-400 IU vitamin D and typically use the cheaper version D2, which is has been proven to be much less effective. See related products below.