Fifty-six patients with hypercholesterolemia were divided into two groups – half receiving 2000 IU/ day of vitamin D and half receiving a placebo for six months. In the supplemented group, triglycerides were decreased by 28 mg/dL more than in the placebo group. The result was even more dramatic in patients whose vitamin D levels were lower than 30ng/mL at baseline (commonly accepted as a deficient level). In these deficient patients, the difference in reduced triglycerides between supplemented and placebo was 37 mg/dL. In our office I like to see my patient at least at 40ng/ml and below 80ng/ml. Since vitamin D converts into a hormonal form of D it's important to get a blood test to know a baseline of your D status, that way you do not overdose into the hormonal form.

Elevated triglycerides are a common risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and nutrient deficiencies can all play a role in the development of abnormal lipid levels. Vitamin D has recently showed its role in improving metabolic health and lowering triglyceride levels. Patients looking for a more comprehensive approach to improving metabolic and cardiovascular health often seek guidance from a functional medicine clinic in Columbus where personalized testing and targeted nutritional strategies are used to address underlying health factors. Get your vitamin D levels tested at Pure Health and see if you need to supplement for optimal health levels. If you would like to speak to one of our medical providers who can answer questions about our functional medicine program, please call us at 614-839-1044. (Clinical Nutrition, April 2015)