Vitamin D is an essential element for bone strength and helps maintain the balance of calcium and phosphorus in the body.
A recent study has found that vitamin D supplementation can help reduce the risks of heart events, such as heart attacks, in individuals over 60 years of age.
According to a study published in the British Medical Journal, this research is the largest of its kind and further research is needed, especially among individuals who are taking statins or other heart disease medications.
The study revealed a correlation between vitamin D levels and the risks of heart disease through multiple observational studies.
However, no conclusive evidence has emerged from controlled trials to prove that vitamin D prevents heart events.
Controlled trials involve comparing two groups, where one group is given a medication and the other group is given a placebo (dummy treatment).
To eliminate this uncertainty, Australian scientists conducted a research trial by providing vitamin D supplements to older individuals to assess changes in the rate of major heart events.
The trial, conducted from 2014 to 2020, involved 21,315 Australian citizens aged 60 to 84 years, with 662 individuals receiving a 1,500 microgram vitamin D capsule each month and the remaining 10,653 individuals receiving a placebo for five years.
The researchers observed that the group receiving vitamin D had a 9% lower rate of major heart events compared to the placebo group.
The vitamin D group had a 19% lower rate of heart attacks and an 11% lower rate of coronary revascularization. However, there was no difference in the stroke rate between both groups.
Scientists analyzed data from more than 20,000 individuals aged 60 or older and concluded that participants who consistently took the full dose of vitamin D supplementation for five years had a reduced risk of major heart events.
The scientists also emphasized the need for further research before making any recommendations regarding the cardiovascular effects of vitamin D on the heart.