Since the pandemic began, many people have turned to dietary supplements hoping to strengthen their immune systems. And scientists have rushed to research what actually works.
Some studies suggest Vitamin D looks promising. In addition to improving bone health, there's growing evidence it helps keep the immune system running properly, particularly the respiratory system that is so vulnerable to COVID-19 complications.
About 40% of the U.S. population is deficient in Vitamin D, and those showing up with serious COVID complications in the hospital tend to be in the highly-deficient category -- so scientists see a connection.
But supplementing with Vitamin D has shown mixed results so far in preventing or treating COVID, and most studies are not the kind of randomized, controlled clinical trials that provide a gold standard of proof.
"We haven't ruled out vitamin D completely, but I'm skeptical, having worked in this field for 15 years," said Dr. Erin Michos at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.
Read on for more on the research and the debate on whether Vitamin D can help guard against COVID.
BONUS: Worried about your health: Don't put off these 5 health screenings any longer
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Even though 10% to 15% of known pregnancies result in miscarriage, it is still a taboo subject for many people, resulting in feelings of secrecy and shame for those who experience it. But as NPR's Life Kit reports, dealing with the real pain and loss of losing a baby is important to healing.
If you or someone you know has experienced a miscarriage or a stillbirth, its important to acknowledge the loss.
"Typically in the way that I talk about it, it's nature's way of ending a pregnancy that wasn't going to be able to continue on its own," says Dr. Jamila Perritt, an OBGYN in Washington D.C.
Also, allow yourself and others around you room to grieve, whatever that means to them. Psychotherapist Asha Terry encourages those in community with a grieving parent to ask, "How can I show up for you today?"
If you’re supporting a loved one, try to be present and help with practical things, whether it’s returning baby items, bringing meals, or just being available to talk.
Read on for more advice about how to make space to acknowledge and process the loss.
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You may have seen the reports this week: About 5,800 out of 66 million fully vaccinated Americans have gotten sick with the coronavirus. Yes, at first glance, it's worrisome. Once you're vaccinated you shouldn't be able to get sick, right?
Well, almost right. The currently approved vaccines are very effective. But no vaccines offer 100% protection in the real world.
But the good news is these breakthroughs are extremely rare. And there are ways you can protect yourself. Essentially you still need to layer on other safety measures on top of the excellent protection the vaccines give, like still masking and socially distancing in crowded spaces.
Read on for more thoughts on staying safe, including why you should never be afraid to ask your friends their vaccination status.
BONUS: Want to verify your vaccination status? Mobile apps are coming soon. |
More of this week's health stories from NPR |
We hope you enjoyed these stories. Find more of NPR's health journalism on Shots and follow us on Twitter at @NPRHealth.
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