INFLUENCIA DE LA VITAMINA D EN LA FUNCIÓN CARDÍACA: UN ANÁLISIS DE SUS NIVELES ÓPTIMOS PARA LA SALUD CARDIOVASCULAR

Abstract

The research set out to analyze the influence of vitamin D on cardiac function, with the aim of identifying the association between optimal levels of vitamin D and the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The study contributes to the growing body of knowledge in the field of cardiology and endocrinology, highlighting the importance of considering vitamin D not only as an essential nutrient for bone health, but also as a potentially crucial factor in the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases. The methodology used included a systematic review and a meta-analysis, in which 120 studies (62.5% observational and 37.5% clinical trials) were selected for detailed analysis. A random effects model was used to calculate relative risk and 95% confidence intervals, assessing heterogeneity between studies using Cochran's Q test and the I² statistic. Additionally, a subgroup analysis was performed based on characteristics such as age, gender, and the presence of pre-existing comorbidities. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Jadad Scale for clinical trials and the Newcastle-Ottawa criteria for observational studies, following the PRISMA guidelines for the presentation of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. The results revealed an inverse relationship between vitamin D levels and the risk of cardiovascular diseases, with a clear trend of decreasing risk as vitamin D levels increase. It was observed that individuals with levels greater than 30 ng/mL of vitamin D had a reduced relative risk for the development of heart conditions. Furthermore, the inverse correlation between vitamin D levels and inflammatory markers was highlighted, providing a possible explanation for how vitamin D could exert a protective effect on the heart and blood vessels. In conclusion, the study reinforces the hypothesis of a significant association between optimal levels of vitamin D and a decrease in the risk of cardiovascular diseases, underscoring the importance of personalized strategies in vitamin D supplementation, especially in groups at higher risk of deficiency.  The need for further research is highlighted to fully understand the mechanisms by which vitamin D influences cardiac function and to establish clear guidelines around optimal vitamin D supplementation in the context of cardiovascular health.