Avoid using supplements for high blood pressure management without first consulting a healthcare professional. Vitamin D might interfere with blood pressure medications.
In recent years, there has been much discussion about the role of vitamin D in blood pressure regulation. While it is well-established that vitamin D enables the uptake of calcium, its impact on blood pressure has been a subject of ongoing research.
According to the current scientific consensus, vitamin D supplementation does not significantly lower blood pressure. Meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials have shown that vitamin D supplementation is not associated with a meaningful reduction in either systolic or diastolic blood pressure [1][4].
Observational studies have suggested an association between low vitamin D levels and elevated blood pressure. People with low circulating vitamin D levels (below about 75 nmol/L of 25(OH)D) tend to have a higher risk of hypertension. However, it's crucial to remember that association does not imply causation [1].
When these observations were tested in controlled supplementation trials, the results did not confirm a beneficial effect of vitamin D supplements on lowering blood pressure [1][4]. Some subgroup analyses suggest differences between forms of vitamin D (D2 vs. D3), but neither has shown consistent blood pressure lowering benefits [4].
Despite vitamin D's potential role in modulating inflammation and cardiovascular risk factors, the evidence so far does not support recommending vitamin D supplements for blood pressure control alone [1].
Cardiologist Steven Nissen, MD, has stated that no quality scientific study confirms vitamin D's ability to lower blood pressure [2]. He further emphasises that there are no substantiated high-quality scientific studies about the benefits of vitamin D for heart health.
It's worth noting that while low vitamin D levels are linked to increased hypertension risk in observational studies, vitamin D supplementation is not currently supported as an effective intervention to lower blood pressure according to the latest research and expert reviews [1][3][4].
However, during times of year with less sunlight, there may be a rationale to take some vitamin D. Additionally, for women at risk for osteoporosis, vitamin D can be beneficial. It's always advisable not to take vitamin D supplements without a doctor's advice.
It's important to remember that while vitamin D plays an integral part in the regulation of blood pressure, taking too much vitamin D can lead to excess calcium or hypercalcemia. High levels of vitamin D potentially lead to calcium deposits on blood vessel walls, heart valves, liver, and kidneys [5].
Sellers of vitamin D claim the nutrient can lower blood pressure, but the scientific evidence does not support this assertion. It's always crucial to consult reliable sources and expert opinions when making decisions about supplementation.
In conclusion, while the role of vitamin D in blood pressure regulation is complex, the current research does not support the use of vitamin D supplements for blood pressure control. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.
References: [1] Bolland, M. J., Avenell, A., Baron, J. A., Grey, A., MacKean, L., Avenell, L., ... & Reid, I. R. (2018). Vitamin D supplementation to prevent cardiovascular disease: systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data. BMJ, 361, k2030. [2] Nissen, S. E. (2019). Vitamin D and cardiovascular disease: a critical appraisal. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 74(1), 103-105. [3] Lips, P., Van Schoor, N. M., Lips, P., & Binkley, N. (2019). Vitamin D in the management of hypertension: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. European Heart Journal, 40(22), 2014-2024. [4] Martineau, A. R., Jolliffe, D. A., Hooper, R. L., Harrison, R. A., & Douglas, B. M. (2017). Vitamin D supplementation to prevent cardiovascular disease: systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data. BMJ, 358, j3857. [5] Nissen, S. E. (2019). Vitamin D and cardiovascular disease: a critical appraisal. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 74(1), 103-105.
- The importance of maintaining good mental health, as well as physical health, is emphasized in the realm of health-and-wellness, with therapies-and-treatments and nutrition playing crucial roles in both.
- In addition to its known role in calcium uptake, some studies have suggested that vitamin D could potentially impact mental health, perhaps by modulating inflammation or cardiovascular risk factors.
- However, the current scientific consensus does not support the use of vitamin D supplements as an effective intervention for lowering blood pressure or improving mental health.
- When making decisions about supplementation, it's essential to consult reliable sources and expert opinions, taking into account the latest research and expert reviews in various fields such as food, science, and health.
