Lower Your Risk of Death by Getting More Vitamin D

You may want to make sure you're getting enough vitamin D in your diet. Scientists have found that people with lower blood levels of vitamin D were twice as likely to die prematurely as people with higher levels of vitamin D.

The researchers found that the blood level amount of vitamin D associated with about half of the death rate was 30 ng/ml. What's more worrisome, though, is that about two-thirds of the U.S. population has an estimated blood vitamin D level below 30 ng/ml.

"Three years ago, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) concluded that having too-low blood level of vitamin D was hazardous," said Cedric Garland, one of the researches, in a news release. "This study supports that conclusion, but goes one step further. The 20 nanograms per milliliter (ng/ml) blood level cutoff assumed from the IOM report was based solely on the association of low vitamin D with risk of bone disease. This new finding is based on the association of low vitamin D with risk of premature death from all causes, not just bone diseases."

The findings reveal that taking in enough vitamin D is crucial for your health. In addition, it reveals that vitamin D is safe when used in appropriate doses of up to 4,000 IU per day. That said, the scientists do urge caution with supplements.

"However, it's always wise to consult your physician when changing your intake of vitamin D and to have your blood level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D checked annually," said Heather Hofflich, one of the researchers, in a news release. "Daily intakes above 4,000 IU per day may be appropriate for some patients under medical supervision."

The findings are published in the American Journal of Public Health.