Vitamins : Is Vitamin D Connected to Hypertension?

Article by Christian Goodman

I am extremely fortunate in my position to be able to receive direct feedback from my clients. They let me know personally, how my program has helped and ask follow up questions to help ensure they are as healthy as they can possibly be. Sometimes, the same question comes up and its good to be able to address the answer to many.

Several of you have asked if there is a link between Vitamin D deficiency and hypertension (high blood pressure).

Vitamin D is actually several different vitamins ” Vitamin D2 and D3 specifically. Vitamin D3 is produced when a persons skin is exposed to sunlight or ultraviolet light. In fact, sunlight is the easiest way to get the required amount of Vitamin D.

Healthy bones rely on Vitamin D as do the body’s organs. Vitamin D helps to keep the body functioning properly.

There have been several studies which have shown that people with Vitamin D deficiency and high blood pressure have a 50% greater chance of suffering a stroke, heart attack or heart failure than those without the vitamin deficiency.

How can I tell if I might have a Vitamin D Deficiency?

A blood test can be done by a doctor to determine deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency symptoms alone are not the best gauge since they can be similar to those of depression, periodontal disease or the flu.

Age is a factor that can make one person more susceptible to a deficiency. Older adults tend to spend more time indoors away from the ultraviolet light. In addition, older skin does not convert the Vitamin as readily.

Another group at risk for Vitamin D deficiency would be those who are homebound, those living in northern latitudes, and those whos occupations preclude them from direct sunlight.

Larger amounts of the pigment, melanin produce darker skin and also reduce its ability to process Vitamin D from ultraviolet exposure.

Obese people are also at a greater risk for Vitamin D deficiency. Obese people have a lower plasma concentration and Vitamin D tends to accumulate in the fat cells.

Of course, the easiest way to avoid Vitamin D deficiency would be at least 10 minutes of direct sunlight exposure each day. You should, however, consult your doctor first to ensure this will not lead to larger health issues.

Many foods contain Vitamin D either naturally or enhanced ” Cod, salmon, mackerel, tuna, milk, eggs, cereal. Consult your doctor to ensure you are eating the required amount to maintain adequate Vitamin D production.

There are Vitamin D supplements available, however, a doctor should be consulted since this is a fat soluble vitamin and other health conditions could arise if you are taking too much.

Whether Vitamin D is partially to blame for your high blood pressure or other causes, I suggest you try the High Blood Pressure Program. It has help thousands and will help you too.

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