Studies show that adults with a vitamin D deficiency are more likely to die, yet another indication of the nutrient’s vital role in guarding against ailments ranging from heart disease to cancer.

Several recent studies that have shown vitamin D may protect against ailments including heart disease, cancers of the colon and breast, diabetes and tuberculosis.

Now a new study that followed more than 13,000 adults for more than 8 years on average has shown that those with the lowest levels of Vitamin D had a 26 percent increased risk of death.