Vitamin D supplementation might help people receive some of the benefits of sunlight without having to experience the winter weather. But taking supplements won’t help reduce the frequency and duration of seasonal colds, influenza-like illness or total days of winter illness, according to a study published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases.

The study included 759 participants ages 45 to 75. The randomized trial included one vitamin D group, one calcium group, one group that took both and a placebo group.

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Those who took vitamin D and/or calcium supplements did not have fewer upper respiratory tract infections, reinforcing previous studies that have also found that supplements do not decrease cold severity.

Although it might not help avoid common winter illnesses, the “sunshine vitamin” still has benefits. A healthy intake of vitamin D has been shown to reduce blood pressure, inflammation and improve levels of insulin sensitivity.

Getting the proper amount of vitamin D can be more difficult during the winter — particularly for those living in northern climates. An estimated 30 percent of Americans already struggle with vitamin D deficiency.

Eating foods with vitamin D, such as cereals, breads, grain products, fatty fish and mushrooms can provide people with enough of the vitamin. Taking supplements can also be an effective way to prevent or improve vitamin D deficiency, some experts say.

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