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A new study published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society shows that vitamin D supplements may help lower blood pressure in obese older adults.
Research highlights the importance of adequate vitamin D intake for metabolic and circulatory health, but suggests that higher-than-recommended doses do not confer additional benefit.
The benefits of vitamin D supplementation
According to the US National Institutes of Health, the recommended daily allowance of vitamin D for adults aged 51 to 70 is 600 IU (15 mcg)and for those over 70, 800 IU (20 mcg). The recent study points out that vitamin D supplementation helps lower blood pressure, an essential aspect for preventing cardiovascular disease.
The study was a double-blind, randomized controlled trialwhich involved 221 participants aged 65 or older and with a body mass index (BMI) above 25, which indicates overweight or obesity. These participants had serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels between 10 and 30 ng/mL, indicating vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency.
The participants were divided into two groups: one received a daily dose of 600 IU of vitamin D along with placebo pills, and the other group received 3,750 IU of vitamin D. Each participant also took 250 mg of calcium citrate per day, and the research lasted a year.
The results showed an average decrease of 3,5 mm Hg of systolic blood pressure (SBP) and a reduction of 2,8 mm Hg of diastolic blood pressure (DBP), with a slightly greater reduction in the high-dose vitamin D group.
Why can vitamin D help regulate blood pressure?
Michelle Routhensteindietician specializing in preventive cardiology, explained to Medical News Today the role of vitamin D in blood pressure regulation: “Vitamin D regulates the renin-angiotensin system, which controls blood pressure. When vitamin D levels are low, renin secretion increases, which can increase blood pressure.”
The study has several limitations, including the relatively small sample size and the participants’ underlying comorbidities, such as hypertension, which was treated in 48% of cases. Also, the ethnic and racial diversity of the participants was limited, which may mean that the results are not generalizable to the global population.
How much is too much?
One of the most important aspects highlighted by this study is that higher-than-recommended doses of vitamin D provide no additional benefit for cardiovascular health. Routhenstein warned: “Vitamin D, being fat soluble, can cause toxicity if taken in large doses over the long term. It is essential to monitor your vitamin D levels and consult a doctor to determine the right dose.”
Also, the quality of the supplements matters. “Many supplements contain oils that can go rancid during storage. For optimal absorption, vitamin D should be taken with a meal containing fat,” Routhenstein added.
For older adults with obesity, vitamin D supplements may have a positive effect on blood pressure, but higher doses have no additional benefit and may carry risks. Maintaining a balance and closely monitoring your vitamin D levels are essential for optimal health.
Vitamin D: The Surprisingly Effective (and Potentially Overrated) Supplement for Blood Pressure
Ah, vitamin D! And no, I don’t mean the “D” you get from a cheeky night out; I’m talking about the vitamin that sounds like a dance move in a new viral TikTok! A new study published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society shows this little sunshine vitamin might just bring your blood pressure down—especially if you’re packing a few extra pounds and have a few candles on your last birthday cake.
The Bright Side of Vitamin D
Here’s the lowdown: the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamin D for adults aged 51 to 70 is a mere 600 IU (15 mcg), and those on the other side of 70 get a bump up to 800 IU (20 mcg). Turns out, for those older and not-so-svelte, a daily dose might help keep the blood pressure in check. And trust me, less blood pressure means less chance of your doctor telling you to dial back on the salt like it’s a broken record.
Now, in a classic fashion of good ol’ scientific rigour, the researchers divided 221 participants—who stood a little rounder around the edges and were all 65 or older—into two groups. One was rollin’ with a nice chic 600 IU of vitamin D daily, while the other group had an all-you-can-eat buffet of 3,750 IU a day. And just for the record, all were snacking on 250 mg of calcium citrate. After a year of this supplement buffet, the results were in: a commendable 3.5 mm Hg drop in systolic blood pressure and a respectable 2.8 mm Hg dip in diastolic blood pressure. Not too shabby!
How Does Vitamin D Work Its Magic?
According to the wise words of dietician Michelle Routhenstein, who’s basically the Mary Poppins of vitamins, “Vitamin D regulates the renin-angiotensin system, which controls blood pressure.” This basically means that when your vitamin D levels are low, it’s like having a party without a bouncer—more renin gets secreted, and before you know it, blood pressure is pushing all the wrong buttons!
However, hold your horses! Before you stockpile vitamin D like it’s going out of fashion, the study has its limitations. The sample size isn’t exactly big enough to fill a football team, and a whopping 48% of participants were already on hypertension meds. So, while it’s a good start, it’s hardly the magic bullet we’ve all been waiting for!
How Much is Too Much?
One takeaway from the study that we all need to wallow in: more isn’t always merrier. In fact, exceeding that prescribed dose of vitamin D could lead to toxicity. Routhenstein warns, “Vitamin D, being fat-soluble, can cause toxicity if taken in large doses over the long term.” So, before you decide to chug back a few vitamin D pills with your morning coffee, hold up and chat with your doc first.
“Also, the quality of the supplements matters,” Routhenstein added. “Many supplements contain oils that can go rancid during storage. For optimal absorption, vitamin D should be taken with a meal containing fat!”
So, my dear readers, for older adults swimming in the sea of obesity, it seems that vitamin D isn’t just a sunny little pill—it’s a potential game-changer for blood pressure. Just remember, though, moderation is key! A balanced approach, regular monitoring of your vitamin D levels, and, dare I say, a sprinkle of common sense will guide you toward optimal health without turning you into a human pill factory.
How can individuals choose the right vitamin D supplements to ensure maximum effectiveness?
**Interview with Michelle Routhenstein, Dietician Specializing in Preventive Cardiology**
**Editor:** Welcome, Michelle! Thank you for joining us today to discuss the fascinating new study on vitamin D and its impact on blood pressure in older adults.
**Michelle Routhenstein:** Thank you for having me! I’m excited to talk about this important research.
**Editor:** The study suggests that vitamin D supplements may help lower blood pressure in obese older adults. Can you explain how vitamin D influences blood pressure regulation?
**Michelle Routhenstein:** Absolutely! Vitamin D plays a crucial role in regulating the renin-angiotensin system, which is responsible for controlling blood pressure. When vitamin D levels are low, there’s an increase in renin secretion, leading to higher blood pressure. So, adequate vitamin D can be beneficial in managing hypertension.
**Editor:** Interesting! The study involved participants aged 65 and older and monitored their blood pressure over a year. What were the main findings regarding blood pressure reduction?
**Michelle Routhenstein:** The study found that participants taking 600 IU of vitamin D experienced an average decrease of 3.5 mm Hg in systolic blood pressure and 2.8 mm Hg in diastolic blood pressure. Those taking a higher dose of 3,750 IU saw slightly greater reductions, but the increase in dosage doesn’t necessarily translate into proportional benefits.
**Editor:** That’s a noteworthy reduction for cardiovascular health. However, the study also indicates that taking higher-than-recommended doses may not provide additional benefits. Can you elaborate on that?
**Michelle Routhenstein:** Certainly! It’s essential to stick to recommended dosages because excessive vitamin D can lead to toxicity. The U.S. National Institutes of Health suggests a daily allowance of 600 IU for adults aged 51 to 70 and 800 IU for those over 70. Going beyond that doesn’t enhance cardiovascular health and may pose risks. It’s crucial for everyone to monitor their levels and consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice.
**Editor:** Great advice! Additionally, what should people consider when choosing vitamin D supplements?
**Michelle Routhenstein:** Quality is key! Some supplements can contain oils that may go rancid over time. For optimal absorption, it’s best to take vitamin D with a meal that contains fat. Always reading the labels and sourcing from reputable brands can greatly impact effectiveness.
**Editor:** Thank you, Michelle, for shedding light on the importance of vitamin D, especially for older adults managing their blood pressure. Any final thoughts?
**Michelle Routhenstein:** Just a reminder that while vitamin D can be beneficial, it’s important to maintain a balanced approach. Supplements should complement a healthy diet and lifestyle, not replace them. Regular health check-ups and consultations with a healthcare provider are always a wise choice.
**Editor:** Wise words indeed! Thank you for your insights today, Michelle. We appreciate your time.
**Michelle Routhenstein:** Thank you for having me! It was a pleasure.