Can Vitamin D Help Lower Blood Pressure?

Vitamin D Supplementation: Effects on Blood Pressure in Older Adults

A randomized clinical trial published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition investigated the impact of daily vitamin D supplementation at doses of 2000 IU versus 800 IU on blood pressure among adults aged 60 years and older.

Study Overview

Researchers conducted a double-blind, randomized trial to assess whether higher doses of vitamin D could more effectively reduce blood pressure in older adults. Participants were assigned to receive either 2000 IU or 800 IU of vitamin D daily, and their blood pressure was monitored over a specified period.

Key Findings

Blood Pressure Reduction: The study found that both doses of vitamin D supplementation resulted in modest reductions in blood pressure among participants.

Dose Comparison: There was no significant difference in blood pressure reduction between the 2000 IU and 800 IU groups, suggesting that increasing the dose above 800 IU may not provide additional benefits for blood pressure control in this population.

Implications

These findings indicate that while vitamin D supplementation can contribute to lowering blood pressure in older adults, higher doses beyond 800 IU daily do not appear to offer extra advantages. Healthcare providers should consider these results when recommending vitamin D dosages for blood pressure management in older patients.

Conclusion

Incorporating vitamin D supplementation at a daily dose of 800 IU may aid in modest blood pressure reduction among adults aged 60 and above. As always, individuals should consult with their healthcare providers to determine the appropriate supplementation regimen tailored to their specific health needs.

For more detailed information, refer to the original study: Effect of daily 2000 IU versus 800 IU vitamin D on blood pressure among adults age 60 years and older: a randomized clinical trial.