Vitamin D is essential for good health. Yet, almost half of US adults lack enough of it. New research suggests getting enough vitamin D might actually help you live longer. Scientists have identified three key ways this “sunshine vitamin” can boost longevity.
First, vitamin D may help fight cancer. Studies link higher levels of vitamin D to a lower risk of colorectal cancer. It can also improve survival for people with the disease. Vitamin D helps the immune system. It also reduces inflammation throughout the body.
Second, the vitamin appears to slow down aging. Researchers looked at the ends of chromosomes, called telomeres. Telomere length shortens as we age. A recent study found that vitamin D supplements helped preserve telomere length. This effect was equal to about a three-year reduction in biological aging.
Third, D3 supplements may protect your heart. A trial with heart attack survivors was recently presented. It found targeted vitamin D treatment cut the risk of a second heart attack by over half. While more research is needed, this offers a huge potential benefit. Talk to your doctor about your vitamin D levels. You might be missing a simple way to boost your long-term health.
