- A comprehensive study discovered that vitamin D supplements have the potential to reduce the risk of heart attacks in adults over 60.
- While the effects were modest, researchers believe that further investigation is warranted.
- Vitamin D is associated with various health benefits, including enhanced immune health and stronger bones.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US, accounting for approximately 1 in 5 deaths every year.
However, researchers believe there might be a promising and simple way to slightly reduce the risk of heart problems: taking vitamin D supplements.
In a significant Australian study involving over 21,000 participants conducted over six years, it was found that older adults who took vitamin D supplements had a slight reduction in the risk of cardiovascular events, particularly heart attacks.
The study focused on participants aged 60 to 84 and considered various lifestyle factors, including diet, and their current cardiovascular medications. The participants were randomly assigned to either take a monthly vitamin D3 supplement (60,000 IU) or a placebo.
Reduction in the risk of heart attacks by 20%
The researchers of the study hypothesize that vitamin D could enhance heart health by reducing inflammation, regulating blood pressure, and preventing vascular smooth muscle dysfunction.
The most significant findings reveal that the group taking the supplements experienced a 9% lower rate of major cardiovascular events, with heart attacks being 19% lower in that group. There was no difference in the rate of stroke between the two groups.
Interpret the findings cautiously
Professor Rachel Neale, one of the lead researchers of the study, cautioned that “while the findings are suggestive of benefit, they’re not conclusive.”
Firstly, the supplements showed slightly better results in individuals already taking statins. Analyzing individuals who are not on cardiovascular drugs may provide a clearer understanding of the true impact of vitamin D3 supplements.
Additionally, the study employed monthly supplements as people are more likely to adhere to a monthly pill rather than a daily one. However, Neale mentioned that “recent publications suggest that daily dosing is more effective than monthly dosing.”
The study mainly involved older participants, leaving the effect of vitamin D3 on individuals below 60 uncertain.
In conclusion, the researchers indicate that “vitamin D supplementation might reduce the incidence of major cardiovascular events,” but emphasize the need for further research.
Simultaneously, Neale believes it is unlikely for a study of this magnitude to be replicated in the near future. She stated, “To be honest, I don’t think we’re going to get more conclusive evidence because nobody else is going to conduct a trial of the same nature; it’s very expensive.”
Vitamin D supplements are not a cure-all
Neale indicates that there are no straightforward takeaways from this study. While she does not believe that taking vitamin D supplements would harm anyone, she argues that “we have more compelling evidence for a healthy diet than we do for vitamin D supplementation in reducing heart attacks.”
Vitamin D is linked to various other health benefits, including improved bone health, a strengthened immune system, and potential risk reduction for cancer or depression. However, more research is necessary in these areas.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
