Vitamin D and cardiovascular diseases

Vitamin D is an essential micronutrient crucial for various physiological functions in humans, notably impacting calcium metabolism, skeletal integrity, immune response, and cellular proliferation and differentiation. While predominantly synthesized through sunlight exposure, dietary intake, and supplementation also contribute to its availability. Vitamin D deficiency has been implicated as a potential risk factor for atherosclerosis, cardiorespiratory distress, and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including sudden cardiac death, hypertension, and stroke. Observational studies have indicated an inverse correlation between circulating vitamin D levels and the incidence of CVDs; however, causality remains ambiguous. Some evidence suggests a potential cardioprotective effect of vitamin D supplementation, however, further investigation is warranted to elucidate its precise role in cardiovascular health. This review aims to comprehensively present existing literature on the relationship between vitamin D status and CVDs.