A new study published in the American Heart Journal has shown that taking vitamin D at doses higher than the normal recommendation for five years leads to a reduced risk of developing atrial fibrillation in older adults.
The study was a five-year placebo-controlled trial in which 2,495 older adults (>65 years old for women and >60 years old for men) were randomized into three groups: one group took a placebo, the second group took 1600 UI of vitamin D per day, and the third group took 3200 IU of vitamin D per day. Notably, the recommended dose of vitamin D is 800 IU per day. The purpose of the study was to determine the relationship between vitamin D supplementation and the incidence of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Throughout the study, the incidence of cancer and cardiovascular disease in the study population was monitored.
The results showed that the risk of developing atrial fibrillation was 27% lower in the 1600 IU group and 32% lower in the 3200 IU group compared to the placebo group across the five-year trial. Atrial fibrillation is the most common form of heart arrhythmia and is associated with an increased risk of stroke, heart failure, and death. This is the first study to show a connection between atrial fibrillation and vitamin D; while more research is needed to confirm the results, vitamin D appears promising in preventing the development of atrial fibrillation.
Previously published findings from the same study, called the Finnish Vitamin D Trial (FIND), showed no association between vitamin D supplementation and the risk of developing cancer or other forms of cardiovascular disease. While most supplements do not appear to impact heart health, vitamin D and select others, including omega-3 fatty acids, show promise in improving and maintaining the health of your heart.
Sources: American Heart Journal, Science Daily
