Researchers from the University of South Australia have made a significant discovery regarding vitamin D, a nutrient commonly known for its role in bone health.
Their recent study, which could have important implications for cardiovascular health, found that a deficiency in vitamin D is linked to an increased risk of heart disease.
The research team provided genetic evidence showing that people who lack enough vitamin D are more likely to experience heart problems and high blood pressure compared to those with normal vitamin D levels.
This finding is particularly concerning considering that cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally, claiming approximately 17.9 million lives each year. Low levels of vitamin D are a widespread issue in many parts of the world.
In their study, the researchers estimated that around 4.4% of all cases of cardiovascular diseases could potentially be prevented if people with vitamin D deficiency were to reach a minimum level of 50 nmol/L.
They analyzed data from up to 267,980 individuals, which provided strong statistical evidence of a link between vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
One group particularly at risk for vitamin D deficiency are those living in residential care, as they may have limited exposure to sunlight. Sunlight is a primary natural source of vitamin D.
While it’s also possible to get vitamin D from certain foods like oily fish, eggs, and fortified foods and drinks, these sources often don’t provide enough of the nutrient. Even a diet that is otherwise considered healthy typically does not contain sufficient amounts of vitamin D.
The team led by Prof Elina Hyppönen highlighted the importance of understanding this connection between low vitamin D levels and cardiovascular diseases, especially given the widespread occurrence of these health issues.
Their research, published in the European Heart Journal, underscores the need for greater attention to vitamin D levels as part of cardiovascular health strategies.
This study adds to a growing body of research emphasizing the broader health implications of vitamin D, beyond its traditional association with bone health.
It suggests that maintaining adequate vitamin D levels could be a simple yet effective way to help reduce the risk of heart diseases, which remain a major health challenge worldwide.
If you care about heart health, please read studies that vitamin K helps cut heart disease risk by a third, and a year of exercise reversed worrisome heart failure.
For more information about heart health, please see recent studies about supplements that could help prevent heart disease, stroke, and results showing this food ingredient may strongly increase heart disease death risk.
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