Vitamin D has long been linked to strong bones - but new findings show it's a possible key to vibrant hearts too. Researchers in Utah recorded the vitamin D levels of nearly 28,000 people aged 50 and older, who had no signs of heart disease and were tested for the vitamin's levels during routine checkups. Patients were checked again after more than a year, and results were eye opening.

 

Men and women with very low vitamin D levels turned out to be more than 70% more likely to die of heart disease or become prone to stroke, and nearly 50% more likely to develop coronary artery disease than those whose vitamin D levels were considered normal.

 

Until more studies are done using vitamin D supplements, it's too early to know for sure if vitamin D deficiency is directly linked to heart problems, say experts at the American Heart Association. But for now, the AHA suggests turning to nutrition, not supplements, to get your daily dose. Talk with your healthcare provider regarding what's best for you.

 

Sunshine is the key source of vitamin D, but overexposure to ultraviolet rays is linked to skin cancer, so discuss the merits and possible risks of "sunshine therapy" with your healthcare provider.

 

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of vitamin D per day is:

Foods that deliver when it comes to vitamin D:

Article from Heart Care Health Monitor Winter 2010