Vitamin D: Myths and Realities in Heart, Lung, and Related Diseases

In this episode of Patient Pulse, Dr. Clifford Rosen, Professor of Medicine at Tufts University School of Medicine, talks about the role of vitamin D in heart, lung, and related diseases. 

Dr. Rosen explains myths and realities about:

  • How Vitamin D works
  • Vitamin D levels and bone health
  • Vitamin D and acute and chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, obesity, blood clots, and COVID-19
  • Vitamin D treatment for acute and chronic diseases
Key Takeaways:
  • Vitamin D is made in the skin and is also absorbed orally.
  • Vitamin D promotes calcium absorption in the gut.
  • Generally healthy levels are between 15-45 ng/ml; levels may vary due to skin color, dietary intake, obesity, or chronic disease.
  • Serum (blood) vitamin D levels do not predict chronic diseases.
  • Vitamin D treatment has not been shown to impact any acute or chronic disease, including heart disease, blood clots, or inflammatory conditions (COVID-19).
  • 800 IU vitamin D is sufficient for most individuals.

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