Heart Health: Vitamin D insufficiency has been linked to cardiovascular issues
The leading cause of death for both men and women worldwide is still heart disease. Vitamin D, which was first recognised for its critical function in maintaining bone health, has recently been identified as a possible therapeutic target in the fight against cardiovascular disease.
An increasing body of research indicates a link between low vitamin D levels and higher cardiovascular disease morbidity and death, but the ideal vitamin D levels for heart health are still unknown. In this article, we discuss the link between heart health and vitamin D.
How does Vitamin D affect heart health?
Vitamin D is a precursor of hormones that can be acquired through organic or fortified products, nutritional supplements, or sun exposure. Due to our body's natural capacity to create enough of it after exposure to ultraviolet sunlight, which starts the skin's synthesis of vitamin D3, it stands out from all other vitamins in a special way.
The liver then converts vitamin D3 to 25(OH)D, the best marker of vitamin D intake that can be easily quantified in the blood. The last hydroxylation of vitamin D to its physiologically active form occurs in our kidneys. As a result, low dietary intake, insufficient sunshine exposure, and severe liver or kidney disease are just a few of the factors that can lead to vitamin D insufficiency.
The impact of vitamin D on a wide range of physiological processes is due to the presence of vitamin D receptors in a wide number of cells and tissues throughout the body. A higher risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and strokes has been linked to low vitamin D levels.
Prospective cardioprotective processes of vitamin D involve anti-inflammatory effects, suppression of muscle fibers emergence, and improved glucose tolerance, all of which are known to delay the onset of cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus, though it is still unclear if there is a cause-and-effect relationship.
The majority of information on vitamin D's effects on the cardiovascular system, however, has come from observational studies that cannot fully account for confounding variables like outdoor exercise (which increases exposure to sunlight), overall nutritional status, or diseases that interfere with vitamin D absorption or metabolism.
How does Vitamin D improve blood flow?
As vitamin D insufficiency has been linked to cardiovascular issues like high blood pressure, strokes, and heart attacks, increasing vitamin D intake helps improve circulation. Additionally, vitamin D may enhance the heart's ability to pump blood, supporting those with existing cardiac conditions.
There is evidence that vitamin D enhances circulation. The anti-inflammatory properties of vitamin D have been linked to this. Additionally contributing to the relaxation of blood vessels and arteries may be vitamin D. Furthermore, vitamin D is known to strengthen blood vessels and cells while lowering levels of a hormone called angiotensin II, which is linked to inflammation and high blood pressure.
Poor lifestyle choices, such as not spending enough time outdoors and consuming little fresh, nutrient-rich food, can result in low vitamin D levels. The fact that these problems are themselves risk factors for CVD demonstrates how frequently the two are related.
Now that you understand the benefits of vitamin D in maintaining heart health and improving blood flow, make sure to add adequate vitamin D into your routine.
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