Does Vitamin D Help with Autoimmune Diseases?

A Keck Medicine of USC rheumatologist discusses whether vitamin D supplementation can benefit patients with autoimmune diseases.

Vitamin D is one of the key nutrients that keeps your immune system functioning. Vitamin D binds to immune cells, strengthening and supporting their function, explains Daniel Arkfeld, MD, a rheumatologist with Keck Medicine of USC.

“The immune system needs vitamin D to function at its best,” he says.

With this in mind, researchers continue to explore whether increasing vitamin D levels can help patients with autoimmune disorders, especially those who are vitamin D deficient.

Should you take a vitamin D supplement for autoimmune diseases?

What does research show so far? The results are mixed, Dr. Arkfeld says. For instance, he says, “It’s been shown that vitamin D deficiency needs to be treated in lupus patients, but the effects are less clear when it comes to patients with rheumatoid arthritis.”

Supplementing vitamin D won’t cure an autoimmune disease, nor will it provide significant relief from its symptoms. However, maintaining optimal vitamin D levels can help support your overall wellness strategy.

Taking vitamin D supplements for autoimmune conditions

Some doctors may recommend supplementing with vitamin D to help not only regulate the immune system but for its many other benefits, including supporting bone health.

What level of vitamin D intake should autoimmune patients aim for, either from supplementation, the foods they eat, or both? General-population guidelines for daily vitamin D intake is 600-800 IU (international units). Patients with autoimmune diseases, however, might be recommended to aim for a higher intake in the 1000-2000 IU range.

Tips for supplementing with vitamin D

When taking a vitamin D supplement, be sure to follow usage instructions to ensure it is absorbed properly by the body.

Also keep in mind that over-supplementing with vitamin D can lead to adverse effects, Dr. Arkfeld warns. For instance, because vitamin D increases calcium absorption, too much vitamin D intake can lead to kidney stones.

Consult your doctor to determine the proper vitamin D dose for you. Your doctor can even perform a quick blood test to measure your current vitamin D levels and determine how much supplementation could help, factoring in your health status and other medications you might be taking. You can also get follow-up testing to ensure you’re reaching therapeutic levels of vitamin D without going too high.

By working with your health care team to address potential vitamin D deficiency, you’re taking an active role in supporting your health.

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