High Vitamin D Levels Reduces Risk of Premature Death

Several recent studies have found that low vitamin D levels are linked to an increased risk of heart attack and premature death. A University of Kansas Hospital study of more than 10,000 people found that vitamin D deficiency increased the death rate (deaths per year) by 100 percent. Taking Vitamin D supplements reduced the death risk by 60 percent. They recommended that adults should take 1,000 to 2,000 international units of vitamin D each day. The supplement will only help you live longer if you are vitamin D deficient. This was an important study because up to 70 percent of Americans have low levels of vitamin D. (American Journal of Cardiology, published online November 7, 2011)