It is well known that excess abdominal fat increases the risk of chronic inflammation, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. The combination of excess abdominal fat and vitamin D deficiency appears to further increase the risk of chronic disease and premature death in people over the age of 50, as shown by a study published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism. Here, the researchers describe how vitamin D protects against premature death. It may therefore be beneficial for your health to check whether your waist circumference is within an appropriate range and whether your blood vitamin D level is optimal throughout the year.