Higher intakes of vitamins D and B12 have been linked to an elevated risk of several chronic diseases, according to a study published in BMC Public Health. The research points to a potential connection between nutrient levels and the development of long-term health conditions, underscoring that more isn’t always better when it comes to certain vitamins.
The study cohort consisted of about 25,000 women aged 35 to 69 from England. Within this group, individuals with multiple chronic conditions tended to weigh more relative to their height, had lower educational attainment, and were more likely to be single or widowed compared to those with fewer health issues. Multimorbidity, defined as the presence of two or more chronic diseases, is associated with higher risks of premature death, hospital admission, disability, and depressive symptoms. These patterns illustrate how demographic and lifestyle factors can intersect with disease burden in substantial ways.
Key findings indicate that higher consumption of vitamin B12, vitamin D, protein, and overall energy intake may correlate with an increased risk of developing multiple diseases. In contrast, a higher intake of vitamin C appeared to be associated with a reduced risk. Iron consumption showed a protective association for women under the age of 60. These results contribute to a nuanced picture of how specific nutrients might influence health outcomes in populations with diverse risk profiles.
While the findings raise important questions, researchers caution that more work is needed to determine whether altering the intake of these nutrients can meaningfully reduce multimorbidity. Prior analyses have linked excessive eating, heavy alcohol use, high consumption of red and processed meats, and frequent snacking with a greater likelihood of developing multiple health conditions. Conversely, consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with adherence to a Mediterranean-style pattern, has consistently been associated with lower disease risk. Higher intake of calcium and potassium also appears supportive for cardiovascular and metabolic health. Some studies have suggested that nutrients such as lutein and zeaxanthin may offer protective benefits as well, though additional verification is required across populations and study designs.
Earlier research has highlighted two factors that can significantly amplify mortality risk in women, underscoring the importance of balanced nutrient intake, healthy lifestyle choices, and regular medical screening to manage chronic disease burden effectively. The ongoing scientific conversation emphasizes that nutrition is one piece of a broader puzzle that includes physical activity, weight management, sleep quality, and social determinants of health. In clinical practice, personalized dietary guidance remains essential for addressing individual risk profiles and improving long-term outcomes, especially for women within this age range who may face higher vulnerability to multimorbidity.