Vitamin D...Not Just for Bones!

It's widely known that Vitamin D is an important tool to build strong bones and prevent rickets.  But it also plays a role in bone growth, muscle function and immune system.  Now researchers are looking at its role in preventing muscle injury.  In a study presented at the annual meeting of the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM), researchers looked at New York Giants football players and found that those who suffered a muscle injury during the season had lower vitamin D levels at the start of pre-season than those who didn’t get hurt (19.9 ng/mL versus 24.7 ng/mL).  A vitamin D level less than 20 ng/mL is considered deficient; levels between 21 and 30 ng/mL are still considered insufficient.

Americans aren't getting the amount of Vitamin D that we should.  Approximately 41% of men and 53% of women are Vitamin D deficient.  What are some sources of Vitamin D other than sunshine?  Try salmon, sardines, shrimp, milk, cod, and eggs.

As mentioned, preventing muscle injury is not the only function of Vitamin D.

• It helps to build strong bones by improving bone density.  An important factor as we age! 
• Some research has shown that having sufficient Vitamin D levels can actually help people drop more weight than those who are deficient. 
• A study in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that people with the lowest levels of vitamin D (less than 10 ng/mL) were 36% more likely to catch a cold than those with levels greater than 30 ng/mL.  (Good to know since cold/flu season is right around the corner!)
• Vitamin D increases the both the size and number of fast-twitch muscle fibers which ultimately improves athletic performance.

These are only a small number of functions of Vitamin D.  Not sure if you are deficient?  Check with your doctor.  A simple blood test can reveal whether you are getting sufficient levels of Vitamin D.  With all the benefits of Vitamin D, why not take a few minutes on your next visit to discuss this with your doctor?  Until then, keep eating strong sources of Vitamin D and try to get a little sunshine every day!