The article in Medical News Today discusses research conducted by Intermountain Health, focusing on the potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation for heart health. Here are the key points from the article:
Researchers are investigating the role of vitamin D supplementation in improving cardiovascular health, specifically in achieving optimal serum vitamin D levels for individuals with certain cardiac issues.
The initial analysis from the clinical trial suggests that the current recommended dietary allowance of vitamin D in the United States may be too low to reach optimal vitamin D levels for individuals with cardiac problems.
The trial, known as TARGET-D, involves 632 participants who have experienced acute coronary syndrome. They were divided into two groups: one receiving vitamin D intervention based on their specific vitamin D levels and the other receiving standard care.
The analysis found that a significant percentage of participants required higher doses of vitamin D supplementation to reach therapeutic levels, with 51% needing between 5,000-8,000 IU, much higher than the recommended dietary allowance.
Some participants required even higher doses, with 14.6% needing 10,000 IU or more to reach optimal vitamin D levels.
It took time for participants to reach the target vitamin D level, with less than 65% achieving it at three months, and 25% requiring six months of intervention.
The study suggests that higher vitamin D doses may be necessary to achieve therapeutic levels in individuals with acute coronary syndrome.
The next phase of the research will investigate whether achieving vitamin D levels greater than 40 ng/mL can lead to improved cardiovascular outcomes.
The study is ongoing, with data collection expected to conclude by May 2024.
The findings indicate that higher doses of vitamin D supplementation may be needed to achieve optimal serum vitamin D levels for individuals with certain cardiac conditions, and further research will determine if this leads to reduced cardiovascular events.
Citation:
Freeborn (21.11.2023): Vitamin D dose guidance may not be high enough for heart health. (Accessed: 06.02.24) https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/vitamin-d-dose-guidance-may-not-be-high-enough-for-heart-health.