scorecardresearch

Chat with

Get that sunshine! A vitamin D deficiency can put your heart health at risk

A new study reveals that there is a strong link between vitamin D deficiency and cardiovascular health. Is this true? Let our experts tell you all!
Written by: Geetika Sachdev
Updated On: 15 Dec 2021, 07:47 pm IST
  • Google News Share
  • Facebook Share
  • X Share
  • WhatsApp Share
obesity and vitamin D
Get the 'sunsine' vitamin via natural sources rather than supplements. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Most of us are already aware that vitamin D aka the sunshine vitamin can really impact bone health, but a new study also reveals that it can affect cardiovascular health. As per a study conducted by the University of South Australia published in the European Heart Journal, researchers have identified genetic evidence for a role of vitamin D deficiency in causing cardiovascular disease. 

The study went on to show that those with vitamin D deficiency are likely to suffer from heart disease and high blood pressure. In fact, those participants with lowest concentrations of vitamin D showed a more than double risk than those who had sufficient concentrations. 

vitamin D and cardiovascular disease
Don’t let yourself run short on the sunshine vitamin! Image courtesy: Shutterstock

So, why is it linked? And what are some ways in which we can get our dose of this essential vitamin? Of course, we do know that staying at home during the pandemic has impacted it, but how can we make up for the damage?

The link between vitamin D and heart health

Dr Ann Mary, Assistant Professor, Division of Infectious Diseases, Amrita Hospital, tells HealthShots, “Vitamins are essential nutrients, which are essential for growth and development. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin and has a significant role in calcium homeostasis and bone metabolism. Over the last few years, there has been widespread attention given to its role in preventing cardiovascular disease. A deficiency has been related to coronary artery calcification, myocardial infarction, stroke and congestive cardiac failure.”

She adds that there are several studies that have demonstrated the presence of coronary artery disease in vitamin D-deficient individuals. 

“But there are still many gaps in knowledge in the relationship between vitamin D and cardiovascular disease that can be established,” says Dr Mary. 

Elaborating on this, Dr Seema Dhir, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Artemis Hospitals, Gurugram, says, “This particular vitamin is known to have a certain anti-inflammatory properties, and the cause of this can cause a reduction in blood pressure. It can reduce osteosclerosis and cholesterol dysfunction,  which is what protects the heart.”

Also, read: Did you know a vitamin D deficiency could be the reason behind your belly fat?

vitamin D and cardiovascular disease
Protect your heart health. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

What is the solution?

Dr Mary shares that there are several causes which can lead to vitamin D deficiency. These are mainly because of decreased intake or absorption, reduced sun exposure, increased breakdown or decreased synthesis in the body.

Also, read: Diabetes can lead to depression. Can omega-3 and vitamin D supplements help?

“The majority of vitamin D that is needed is created by the body from direct sunlight on the skin, when outdoors. Provitamin D3 is synthesized non-enzymatically in the skin from dehydrocholesterol during exposure to the ultraviolet rays in sunlight. Subsequently, with the help of enzymatic reactions, it is converted to active vitamin D3. The other sources of vitamin D3 are oily fish such as salmon, sandives, herring and mackerel, red meat, liver, egg yolks and fortified foods,” she adds. 

Disclaimer: At Health Shots, we are committed to providing accurate, reliable, and authentic information to support your health and well-being. However, the content on this website is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised advice regarding your specific medical condition or concerns.

  • Google News Share
  • Facebook Share
  • X Share
  • WhatsApp Share
About The Author
Geetika Sachdev
Geetika Sachdev

An independent writer and journalist, Geetika loves sharp and fresh humour, just like her coffee! If not writing, you'll find her cafe-hopping and raiding the best book stores in town.

Next Story
Healthshots AHA
Ask a Health Query
Anonymously for FREE!
Close Popup Healthshots AHA
  • Healthshots AHAUnlimited Queries
  • Healthshots AHACompletely Anonymous
  • Healthshots AHA Credible Sources
CHAT NOW