Authors

  1. Sum, Simon Siu-Man MS, MPhil, RD, ACSM-CPT
  2. Bruno, Maura DCN, RD, CDE

Abstract

Chronic hepatitis B is caused by hepatitis B virus infection, which can adversely affect liver function. Vitamin D is an essential fat soluble vitamin for the human body, and the liver is an important organ in the conversion process of vitamin D into its active form, calcitriol. This article discusses the link between vitamin D status and the pathophysiology of hepatitis B viral infection, and whether vitamin D supplementation should be recommended to improve prognosis of hepatitis B viral infection. Evidence-based research is needed to determine the need of vitamin D supplementation for patients with chronic hepatitis B.