A growing wave of research suggests that vitamin D, the so-called “sunshine vitamin,” may influence cardiovascular health and stroke risk. A recent narrative review in the journal Nutrients reports that regular vitamin D supplementation could reduce stroke risk by up to 17%. For Thai audiences, this finding is meaningful given the country’s high burden of heart disease and stroke and the ways lifestyle, diet, and sun exposure influence vitamin D status.
Globally, heart disease remains the leading cause of death, including in Thailand, where non-communicable diseases such as ischemic heart disease and stroke account for a large share of mortality. As cardiovascular disease forecasts rise, understanding modifiable factors like nutrition and vitamin D becomes especially important for aging populations in Thailand.
The review examines multiple studies on vitamin D and cardiovascular outcomes. Some randomized trials show that vitamin D supplementation alone does not substantially reduce cardiac events in the general population. However, certain groups may benefit more: pregnant women taking vitamin D showed considerably lower risks of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm delivery; people with prediabetes experienced cardiovascular risk reductions; and individuals already on statins or other heart medications saw modest decreases in major cardiovascular events.
Experts acknowledge caveats. While vitamin D supports calcium metabolism, bone health, and immune function, solid evidence for preventing major cardiovascular events is limited due to fewer robust trials. A 2025 systematic review highlights ongoing debate about vitamin D’s effects on blood pressure and endothelial function in broad populations. Nonetheless, underdiagnosed vitamin D deficiency may indirectly raise risk factors such as obesity and diabetes, which can contribute to heart disease.
For Thais, these findings emphasize how lifestyle and environment affect vitamin D synthesis. Even in a tropical country like Thailand, urban living, extensive sunblock use, indoor work, and cultural preferences for lighter skin can limit sun exposure, increasing deficiency risk. National data indicate surprisingly high rates of suboptimal vitamin D levels, particularly among women and the elderly.
Beyond sunlight, vitamin D occurs in few common Thai foods. Egg yolks, certain mushrooms, and fatty fish like salmon and mackerel are natural sources, but they are not staples in the traditional Thai diet. Some urban households consume fortified milk and cereals, yet intake often falls short of daily requirements for high-risk groups such as older adults, pregnant women, and children.
Professional guidance varies. The Endocrine Society’s 2024 recommendations advise against routine vitamin D screening for healthy individuals, with supplementation guided by testing and clinical need. Thai doctors tend to recommend targeted testing for people with limited sun exposure or risk factors such as pregnancy, older age, osteoporosis, or chronic illness, allowing for guided supplementation if deficient.
Cultural attitudes also shape public perception. Thai beauty norms favor fair skin, encouraging sun avoidance and sunscreen use, which can dampen natural vitamin D production. Compounded by increasingly indoor, climate-controlled lifestyles, these factors create a distinct context for vitamin D and heart health in Thailand.
Looking ahead, researchers aim to clarify which groups benefit most and the optimal dosing of vitamin D. Thailand’s aging population, rising diabetes and hypertension, and the potential cost-effectiveness of improving vitamin D status suggest meaningful public health implications. At the same time, experts warn against over-supplementation since excessive intake can be harmful. Regular monitoring by healthcare professionals is advised for those at risk.
Practical takeaways for Thai readers include modest, regular sun exposure—about 15-30 minutes outdoors a few times weekly during early morning or late afternoon, with exposed arms or legs. If sun exposure is limited or dietary options are insufficient, discuss blood testing and possible supplementation with a healthcare provider. Diet diversification to include vitamin D–rich or fortified foods can help, particularly for pregnant women, older adults, and people with chronic conditions.
Ultimately, maintaining adequate vitamin D levels fits within a broader cardiovascular prevention plan: regular exercise, balanced nutrition, not smoking, and active management of blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol. As science evolves, staying informed and consulting healthcare professionals remains the best approach to reducing stroke and heart disease risks in Thailand.
For context, this article integrates findings from nutrition research, endocrine guidance, and Thai public health perspectives to offer culturally relevant, actionable steps.