Scientists are in a continuous researching process, in order to aid mankind in its fight against diseases. Some studies reveal breakthroughs, while others merely confirm already existing myths and already followed old-school advice. Some studies need to confirm what older studies have discovered. Of course, there are controversial cases when two similar studies, conducted in much the same manner and under the almost exact conditions, lead to opposite and sometimes paradoxical results. No matter how difficult and strenuous, medical studies and clinical trials are vital to the health of the people and to the advance of medicine.

Recently, it has been discovered that a vitamin D deficiency can have severe consequences on your heart, such as raising the risk of developing heart conditions, which lead to heart attacks and strokes. Vitamin D is mainly absorbed through exposure to sunlight, yet a prolonged exposure brings you not only vitamin D, but also the chance to develop skin cancer.

The director of preventive cardiology at the Mid America Heart Institute in Kansas City, James H. O’Keefe, has stated that there is a wide variety of studies that confirm there is a direct causality link between the lack of vitamin D and increased cardiovascular risk. A vitamin D deficiency leads to risk factors in cardiovascular conditions. Such risk factors are high blood pressure, diabetes and even the stiffening of the left ventricle and blood vessels. A deficit of vitamin D also increases inflammation, which is obviously a negative effect on the heart. O’Keefe has been immersed in such studies recently, as he has been preparing a review of these studies, which is to be published in the December 9th issue of the “Journal of the American College of Cardiology.” The report concludes and 50% of adults and 30% of children and teenagers from the United States suffer from vitamin D deficiency.