Vitamin D may play a vital role in boosting longevity by helping to prevent and treat age-related diseases, according to researchers at Loyola University Chicago Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing.
In a new analysis of Vitamin d studies, published in the Journal of Aging and Gerontology, Loyola researchers found there is a strong link between vitamin D deficiency and chronic diseases associated with aging such as cognitive decline, depression, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and cancer.
"Vitamin D deficiency is a common, serious medical condition that significantly affects the health and well-being of older adults," said Sue Penckofer, a nurse, professor, and study author.
She noted older adults are at risk for vitamin D deficiency due to diet, reduced time outdoors, and poor skin absorption of the nutrient.
With the number of people ages 65 and older expected to more than double between now and 2060, the problem will become much more prevalent.
"Better understanding the relationship between vitamin D and chronic diseases in older adults and whether treatment of vitamin D deficiency can prevent or treat these disorders is important given the increasing number of people at risk for these health issues," said co-researcher Meghan Meehan.
The Institute of Medicine recommends that adults up to 70 years of age take 600 IU of vitamin D daily and adults over the age of 70 consume 800 IU of the nutrient daily.
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