2023-12-26 12:53:41
Vitamin D Deficiency in Germany: Study Shows Increased Mortality Risk
As the cold season continues to grip Germany, the lack of sunlight is leading to a rise in vitamin D deficiency among many people. While the impact on mood is evident, a recent study has revealed even more serious consequences: a persistently low vitamin D level increases the risk of death.
The study, conducted at the Medical University of Vienna, compared the vitamin D levels of 78,000 patients with data from death registers. The research showed that a vitamin D level of 10 nmol/L or less doubled or even tripled the risk of death, particularly among diabetes patients and younger to middle-aged individuals.
Furthermore, a high vitamin D level of 90 nmol/L or more was found to reduce mortality by 30 to 40 percent, with the greatest effect seen in the 45 to 60-year-old age group. Interestingly, the study found no significant connection between mortality and vitamin D levels for patients over 75 years of age.
Commenting on the results, the researchers from the University of Vienna emphasized the importance of widespread vitamin D supplementation to prevent premature mortality. The study also defused concerns about potential negative impacts at higher levels of vitamin D.
This latest study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the importance of maintaining a balanced vitamin D level. Previous research has shown that vitamin D deficiency contributes to the progression of diabetic kidney disease and increases the risk of mortality among cancer patients. It is also associated with a reduced risk of dementia.
Despite the growing understanding of the significant health risks associated with vitamin D deficiency, the German Nutrition Society recommends exposing the face, hands, and parts of the arms and legs to the sun for 5 to 25 minutes every day between 12 p.m. and 3 p.m., depending on skin type and time of year.
As the study highlights the potential consequences of vitamin D deficiency, the need for early administration of vitamin D supplements may become increasingly important, particularly in countries with long, dark winters like Germany.]
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