We have talked before about the role of vitamin D in the nutritional status of those with IBD.  It has long been theorized that the vitamin boosts the immune system as well as aids in limiting inflammation.  Newer research is digging even more deeply into this area with promising results.

A recent article in the American Journal of Pathology noted that the vitamin D receptor plays a role in defending the body against bacterial invasion as well as inflammatory responses (1).  The rodent subjects with more vitamin D receptors were able to fight off the salmonella infection more quickly and were less likely to die from the disease.  This is important because previous research has noted that there is a correlation between salmonella infection and an increased risk of developing IBD.

Future research will no doubt look even more closely at the roles the receptor plays along with its correlation to gut bacteria.  This promising area may lead to more treatments with fewer side effects which will be a blessing to those dealing with IBD.