A recent study suggests that vitamin D supplementation could offer a simple and effective solution for managing blood pressure in older adults with obesity. As blood pressure control is vital in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes, particularly in this demographic, the findings may have important implications for public health.
Previous research has established a link between vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of hypertension, heart disease, and a range of other health issues, including immune disorders and certain cancers. However, the specific impact of vitamin D supplementation on blood pressure regulation has remained unclear—until now.
The study, published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society, followed 221 older adults with obesity over the course of a year. Participants were given either 600 IU or 3,750 IU of vitamin D daily, alongside a 250 mg dose of calcium citrate. The objective was to assess the effects of these interventions on systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
The results indicated that both groups saw an average reduction in blood pressure: a 3.5 mm Hg decrease in systolic blood pressure (the upper number) and a 2.8 mm Hg drop in diastolic blood pressure (the lower number). Interestingly, the higher dosage of vitamin D (3,750 IU) did not produce significantly greater benefits compared to the standard 600 IU, suggesting that more is not necessarily better when it comes to vitamin D supplementation.
The researchers highlighted that the individuals who experienced the most pronounced improvements were those who had both obesity and low baseline levels of vitamin D. “Vitamin D and calcium reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure in overweight older adults, but the effect appears to be independent of the dosage,” the study authors noted. “This effect is particularly evident in individuals with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30 and those with hypertension.”
Dr. Ghada El-Hajj Fuleihan, lead author of the study, emphasized that while vitamin D supplementation may be beneficial for specific groups, such as older adults with obesity or low vitamin D levels, higher doses beyond the recommended daily intake (600 IU as advised by the Institute of Medicine) did not provide additional health benefits. “Our findings suggest that moderate doses of vitamin D may help reduce blood pressure, but larger doses are unlikely to offer extra advantages,” Dr. El-Hajj Fuleihan said.
Experts recommend that individuals considering vitamin D supplements first undergo a blood test to assess their vitamin D levels. Consultation with a healthcare provider is also advised to determine the appropriate dosage for individual health needs. Vitamin D supplementation should be used as part of a comprehensive approach to health, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and effective weight management.
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