Although stroke mortality has declined to 40–60% in the United States and other developed countries because of strict blood pressure control, the burden of stroke is still rising due to an increase in the older population ( 1, 2 ). ![]() Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for over 10% or 5.7 million deaths annually, with the total number of cases predicted to rise over the next few decades ( 1). Future research should further develop understanding of the neuroprotective mechanisms of vitamin D and study how supplementation could be administered effectively in stroke treatment. Although results are mixed and the limitations of vitamin D supplementation merit some caution, vitamin D overall plays a significant role in stroke health. There is some evidence that vitamin D supplementation could lower stroke risk and improve recovery, though outcomes can also be negligible or negative. The neuroprotective mechanisms by which vitamin D operates to mitigate stroke onset and outcomes have yet to be fully studied, but researchers have proposed several pathways, including promotion of certain neuroprotective growth factors, reduction of arterial pressure through vasodilation, and inhibition of reactive oxygen species. Stroke severity and short- and long-term outcomes also worsen with vitamin D deficiency. The literature shows that vitamin D deficiency is a significant risk factor for ischemic stroke, with sun exposure, sex, age, race, diabetes, and genetics playing a role as well. This systemic review summarizes and synthesizes findings from studies relevant to the relationship between vitamin D and stroke risk, severity, and outcome potential mechanisms explaining such a relationship and outcomes from vitamin D supplementation. Vitamin D serum level has been positively associated with improved cardiovascular health, especially with reduction of stroke risk.
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