Vitamin D Can Help Prevent Hypertension

The world's largest study to examine the link between vitamin D levels and hypertension has found that low levels of Vitamin D can be a major cause of hypertension.

Researchers presented their findings at the annual conference of the European Society of Human Genetics (ESHG). Data were gathered from 35 studies, which included more than 155,000 participants from different parts of Europe and North America. Participants with high levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) had reduced blood pressure and were at a lower risk of developing hypertension. To measure the individuals' vitamin D status and test for an association with blood pressure, the researchers used genetic variations called single nucleotide polymorphisms, or SNPs as proxy markers. For every 10% increase in 25(OH)D concentrations the researchers noted the risk of developing hypertension decreased by 8.1%. The approach researchers followed, is called Mendelian randomization, which allowed them to make accurate conclusions, so by using this approach they could determine the cause and effect and be pretty sure that they've come to the right conclusion on the subject. The researchers said that Vitamin D deficiency is a very common problem in the Western world, particularly because obesity can cause Vitamin D deficiency and obesity levels are highest in Western countries, according to a study published in a recent issue of PLoS Medicine. There are two ways that people can obtain vitamin D: By eating or drinking it By exposing the skin to sunlight, which triggers the production of vitamin D The liver and the kidneys are then able to convert it to a form that our body can use. People with high levels of vitamin D in their blood enjoy several benefits, apart from improved bone health. Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine reported in PLOS ONE that people with high levels of vitamin D have significantly better immunity and a reduced risk of several diseases.

Vitamin D insufficiency (between 21-29 ng/mL) and vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/mL) lead to a heightened risk of: 1. Autoimmune diseases 2. Cancer 3. Type 2 diabetes 4. Infectious diseases 5. Cardiovascular diseases 6. Obesity One of the researchers said that the study provides further data to support the importance of vitamin D. It suggests that vitamin D supplements or food fortification can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.