New Study Suggests Daily Vitamin D3 Could Help Heart Attack Survivors
A recent study from Intermountain Health in Salt Lake City has revealed that taking vitamin D3 daily might lower the chances of having a second heart attack for those who have already experienced one.
In this study, researchers closely monitored patients’ vitamin D levels while adjusting their supplements to maintain healthy amounts. The findings, shared at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions, suggest that higher doses of vitamin D3 can reduce the risk of a second heart attack by 50%.
The research, known as the TARGET-D trial, involved 630 patients who had suffered a heart attack in the past month. Alarmingly, 85% of these individuals had low vitamin D levels.
Participants were split into two groups: one received targeted vitamin D3 treatment, while the other did not. The aim was to raise their blood levels to above 40 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL).
Those receiving vitamin D3 treatment had their blood levels checked annually. Most needed an initial dosage of 5,000 international units (IU) daily, much higher than the typical recommendation of 600 to 800 IU for most adults.
During the follow-up period, which concluded in March 2025, 107 participants had major cardiac events. Yet, lead researcher Dr. Heidi May emphasized that no negative effects were reported from the higher doses of vitamin D3.
“This study is promising, but further validation is necessary,” said Dr. May. She noted that approximately two-thirds of people globally have low vitamin D levels, mainly due to less sun exposure in recent years.
Dr. Bradley Serwer, a Maryland cardiologist who was not involved in the study, highlighted that maintaining adequate vitamin D levels is important for cardiovascular health. Previous studies link low vitamin D levels with an increased risk of conditions like hypertension and heart disease.
However, Dr. Serwer warned that while the findings are encouraging, they specifically focus on high-risk patients. More research is needed to see if similar benefits apply to those at lower risk.
Dr. Marc Siegel, a senior medical analyst, added that vitamin D plays a vital role in reducing inflammation and blood clotting, which can help prevent heart-related issues.
Overall, while this study presents hopeful news for heart attack survivors, experts agree that more research is needed to fully understand the role of vitamin D in heart health.
