Diabetic CVD--focus on vitamin D

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity among diabetics. Vitamin D deficiency is very common all over the world. Over last few years, vitamin D has been considered as an important regulating factor for cardiovascular health. Metabolic syndrome and obesity are highly prevalent in vitamin D deficient people. In fact all components of metabolic syndrome are affected by vitamin D. Vitamin D regulates insulin secretion and its action. It has also some controlling effect on Renin-Angiotensin system, which influences cardiomyocytes positively. Vitamin D plays a role in vascular system too. This vitamin reduces vascular calcification and inflammatory processes. Given the important role of Vitamin D in cardiovascular health, this review focuses on the impacts of vitamin D on the various CVD risk factors.