A recent study published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society suggests that vitamin D supplements can help reduce blood pressure in older adults with obesity. The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other organisations, found that taking more than the recommended daily dose of vitamin D provides no additional health benefits.
The study involved 221 adults aged 65 and older with BMIs over 25, indicating overweight or obesity. Participants had insufficient vitamin D levels (10-30 ng/mL) and received 250mg of calcium citrate daily. They were divided into two groups: one taking 600 IU/day (recommended dose) and the other taking 3,750 IU/day (high dose).
After one year, researchers observed:
– Average 3.5 mm Hg reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP)
– Modest 2.8 mm Hg reduction in diastolic blood pressure (DBP)
– No statistically significant difference between low and high-dose groups
– Greater benefits for participants with obesity and low vitamin D levels
Previous studies have linked vitamin D deficiency to increased risks of falls in old adults, autoimmune diseases (multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes) and cardiovascular diseases (hypertension, heart disease). Low vitamin D intake has also been linked to high blood pressure later in life.
The key findings of the study
1. Vitamin D supplements help lower blood pressure in older adults with obesity
2. Taking more than recommended doses provides no additional benefits
3. Obesity and low vitamin D levels benefit most from supplemental vitamin D
Meanwhile, the NIH recommends 600 IU (15 mcg) daily for adults 51-70 years and 800 IU (20 mcg) daily for adults over 70 years.
This study supports vitamin D’s role in maintaining circulatory and metabolic health, emphasizing the importance of adequate intake without exceeding recommended doses.
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