Vitamin D is associated with healthy bones (calcium homeostasis and bone metabolism) and good overall health. It is one of many benefits of getting outside on a sunny day.
Unfortunately, for a significant portion of the population (and many athletes), meeting their suggested daily intake is not as simple as spending time outdoors.
As Vitamin D deficiency becomes a more prevalent problem globally, more research has focused on how it affects athletes. Most reports describe a strong connection between vitamin D and overall health and, in some instances, how it can improve athletic performance.
The Benefits for Athletes
Although it would be too grand a generalization to say that adequate vitamin D always enhances athletic outcomes, there is strong evidence supporting its importance for long-term health. Ensuring proper vitamin D levels benefits athletes of every sport.
- Maintains optimal bone mineral density
- Activates the genes that build muscles for improving strength
- Assists in increasing lean muscle mass
- Enhances protein synthesis for muscle repair
- Improves immunity function
- Speeds up post-exercise recovery time for pain relief
- Boosts oxygen rates for improved breathing and endurance
- Increases blood flow rate
- Reduces the risk of infections
Notable Physical Improvements
Several studies have shown the efficacy of supplements in improving athletic performance across different sports. In most of these experiments, two groups of test subjects were observed: one group that received vitamin D supplements and another that consumed placebos.
One study that focused on elite dancers noted a significant difference in vertical jump heights and an increase in isometric strength, with the results favoring those who took the supplement.
In a similar study involving weights, there was a “trend toward significant improvement” as a group of soccer players who took the supplement rated higher during bench lifting and back squats.
Other studies focusing on aerobic capacity observed positive results concerning the test subjects’ oxygen uptake and workout capacity.
The Trouble with Vitamin D Deficiencies
According to the National Institute of Health’s National Library of Medicine website, approximately 35% of American adults lack sufficient quantities of vitamin D. There are several potential health issues associated with vitamin D deficiencies.
- Delays in rehabilitation
- Slower recovery times after orthopedic surgery
- Impaired lung function and reactive airway disease (asthma-like symptoms)
- Heart and vascular conditions (including hypertension and heart attacks)
- Stress fractures
- Frequent joint pain
- More frequent colds and cases of the flu
It’s not always easy to tell if you are vitamin D deficient. However, achiness, muscle weakness, depression, and trouble sleeping are just some of the common symptoms.
Getting the Correct Amount
Measuring your vitamin D level is straightforward with a 25(OH)D blood test.
Supplements offer an effective way to compensate for any vitamin D deficiency detected, as vitamin D is difficult to obtain through diet alone. Eating foods such as sardines (fatty fish), mushrooms, eggs, egg yolks, red meat, and certain cereals can help.
There is no consensus on how much vitamin D an athlete needs—factors such as age, race, location, and the season will factor into the determination.
Vitamin D supplements are available in vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 formulations, with vitamin D3 being the more active of the two. You’ll find brands containing between 400 and 50,000 IUs (International Units). It’s important not to overcompensate by taking too much.
When in doubt, a discussion with your doctor or the advice of a reputable supplement company should be able to answer all your questions.
Vitamin Armor Is Specially Formulated for Active Lifestyles
Although there is no set prescribed amount of vitamin D for adult athletes, it appears that athletes require more than the general populace.
As a dedicated athlete, you never want to shortchange your performance or jeopardize your well-being. Doctor-formulated Vitamin Armor fills in the nutritional gaps so you can concentrate on being your best.
Contact Vitamin Armor today to learn more.
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