(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Vitamin D may now be beneficial for more than simply strengthening bones. A recent study suggests low levels of vitamin D may be connected with a high severity of Asthma.

A recent study conducted by Harvard Medical School incorporated 600 Costa Rican children living with asthma. The children were tested for lung function and circulating vitamin D levels. Children with lower vitamin D levels shared a higher likelihood of spending time in the past year for asthma, had increased hyperactivity in their airways, and inhaled more corticosteroids.

The deficiency in vitamin D is associated with more behavioral habits than nutrition. Sun exposure accounts for 90 percent of a person's overall vitamin D. Vitamin supplements and vitamin D enriched foods may not make up for the deficiency, but more time in daylight will make up for the deficiency.

SOURCE: To be Published in the American Journal Of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, May 2009