A recent study published in the journal Osteoporosis International has shown that lower levels of vitamin D may be linked to increased heart risks in older adults.
The cross-sectional study included nearly 300 older adults in Italy with an average age of about 73 years. The participants underwent blood tests to determine their vitamin D levels as well as their periostin levels. Periostin is a protein involved in tissue repair and development that has been previously linked to cardiovascular health. After measuring their levels of vitamin D and periostin, each participant had their cardiovascular risk score estimated using multiple assessments. Since both vitamin D and periostin have been linked to heart health, this study sought to determine how each may be linked to cardiovascular risk as we age.
The results showed that lower levels of vitamin D and periostin were both linked to a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Additionally, periostin levels and vitamin D levels were correlated; those with low periostin were likely to also have low vitamin D. In particular, low levels of vitamin D as measured by 1,25(OH)2D levels less than 41 pg/mL were associated with high cardiovascular risk.
The authors of the study noted that their study builds on the role of periostin in the development of cardiovascular disease. The study also highlights the relationship between periostin and vitamin D and their link to cardiovascular health, particularly in older adults. While studies suggest that vitamin D supplementation in general does not improve heart disease risk, tailored doses for those with heart disease may help to mitigate risk. In addition to personalized supplementation based on individual characteristics, heart disease risk can be reduced through lifestyle changes such as getting enough sleep, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a well-balanced diet, and avoiding smoking.
Sources: Osteoporosis International, Medscape