Below is the research abstract I found while searching pubmed – I find it highly interesting.
PURPOSE:
Activated vitamin D (calcitriol) is a pluripotent pleiotropic secosteroid hormone. As a steroid hormone, which regulates more than 1000 vitamin D-responsive human genes, calcitriol may influence athletic performance. Recent research indicates that intracellular calcitriol levels in numerous human tissues, including nerve and muscle tissue, are increased when inputs of its substrate, the prehormone vitamin D, are increased.
METHODS:
We reviewed the world’s literature for evidence that vitamin D affects physical and athletic performance.
RESULTS:
Numerous studies, particularly in the German literature in the 1950s, show vitamin D-producing ultraviolet light improves athletic performance. Furthermore, a consistent literature indicates physical and athletic performance is seasonal; it peaks when 25-hydroxy-vitamin D [25(OH)D] levels peak, declines as they decline, and reaches its nadir when 25(OH)D levels are at their lowest. Vitamin D also increases the size and number of Type II (fast twitch) muscle fibers. Most cross-sectional studies show that 25(OH)D levels are directly associated with musculoskeletal performance in older individuals. Most randomized controlled trials, again mostly in older individuals, show that vitamin D improves physical performance.
CONCLUSIONS:
Vitamin D may improve athletic performance in vitamin D-deficient athletes. Peak athletic performance may occur when 25(OH)D levels approach those obtained by natural, full-body, summer sun exposure, which is at least 50 ng x mL(-1). Such 25(OH)D levels may also protect the athlete from several acute and chronic medical conditions.
Although most research is on younger or older persons – Vitamin D is found to improve athletic performance, hip fractures, muscle strength and power, as well as drop inflammatory markers. This research continues to drive home the fact that we should all have our vitamin D levels tested – if low we are at a risk for many bone and digestion issues as well as lost potential for performance within the gym. We work hard and put a lot of energy into our athletic endeavors, lets not lose any future improvements due to vitamin deficiencies.
