Vitamin D is often associated with healthy bones but this important vitamin is also necessary for a healthy cardiovascular system.
A recent study published by German researchers highlights the connection between vitamin D and cardiovascular disease. The study findings were published in Clinical Nutrition.
Researchers examined data from almost 410,000 patients who met the study criteria with the average follow-up time being 16 years. Researchers looked at medical records, death certificates, vitamin D blood levels at baseline and whether or not a vitamin D supplement was taken.
Vitamin D deficiency was considered to be levels less than 30 nmol/L; insufficiency was a range between 30 and less than 50 nmol/L; sufficient D was a range of 50 to less than 100 and high vitamin D levels were 100 nmol/L or higher.
Participants with a vitamin D deficiency had a 10% increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and had a 35% increased risk of dying from atherosclerotic heart disease. Participants with an insufficient level of vitamin D had a 5% increased risk of total atherosclerotic heart disease. For participants who supplemented with vitamin D, a 6% reduced risk of atherosclerotic heart disease was noted.
Researchers did note that the study did have limitations but recommended having D levels tested and if the levels are below 60 nmol/L, then discussing with your primary care provider the possible benefits of supplementing with vitamin D.
