Atherosclerosis
Low levels of vitamin D may increase the risk of calcium build-up in the arteries, a significant component of atherosclerotic plaque. Atherosclerotic plaque build up in blood vessels can lead to a heart attack or stroke. More research is needed to understand the practical implications of this possible relationship between low vitamin D levels and atherosclerosis.
High Blood Pressure
Low levels of vitamin D may play role in the development of high blood pressure in those with kidney disease and/or hyperparathyroidism. One study, for example, suggested that supplementation with vitamin D and calcium helped to lower blood pressure in older women with low levels of vitamin D and high levels of parathyroid hormone. Your doctor will determine if vitamin D may be helpful for preventing or treating high blood pressure.
Vitamin D and Other Diseases
Infertility and PMS
Infertility is associated with low vitamin D, and PMS has been completely reversed by addition of calcium, magnesium and vitamin D.
Fatigue, Depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder
Activated vitamin D in the adrenal gland regulates tyrosine hydroxylase, the rate limiting enzyme necessary for the production of dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine.
Low vitamin D may contribute to chronic fatigue and depression. Seasonal Affective Disorder has been treated successfully with vitamin D. In a recent study covering 30 days of treatment comparing Vitamin D and 2 hour daily use of 'light boxes', depression completely resolved in the D group, but not in the light box group.
Syndrome X
Vitamin D deficiency has been clearly linked with Syndrome X. Syndrome X refers specifically to a group of health problems that can include insulin resistance (the inability to properly deal with dietary carbohydrates and sugars), abnormal blood fats (such as elevated cholesterol and triglycerides), overweight, and high blood pressure.
Abnormalities of the Parathyroid Hormones
The parathyroids are four glands located in the neck and produce parathyroid hormone, which is responsible for regulating the metabolism of calcium and phosphorous. Low levels of parathyroid hormone (called hypoparathyroid) leads to low levels of calcium and vitamin D. Vitamin D by prescription, along with calcium, is the mainstay of treatment for this condition.
On the other hand, low levels of vitamin D can lead to what is called secondary hyperparathyroidism. In other words, the parathyroid glands begin to over produce parathyroid hormone in response to the low levels of vitamin D -- trying to increase the amount of this essential nutrient in the body. The treatment for this type of hyperparathyroidism is also vitamin D.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
SAD is a form of depression that occurs during the winter months because of lack of sunlight. This condition is often treated with photo (light) therapy. A few studies suggest that the mood of those with SAD improves when taking vitamin D supplements. Talk to your doctor about whether this is a safe and appropriate addition to your treatment regimen.
Tuberculosis
Low levels of vitamin D may make a person more susceptible to contracting tuberculosis. Preliminary reports suggest that vitamin D may be a worthwhile addition to the usual treatment for this infection.