Vitamin D and skeletal muscle function in athletes

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Nutritional Science
• Endocrinology

Background:

• The vitamin D receptor is present in skeletal muscle.
• Severe vitamin D deficiency (<25 nmol/l) is linked to muscle weakness.
• Vitamin D influences muscle mass, strength, and function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent data on vitamin D status in athletes.
• To examine the impact of vitamin D supplementation on athletic performance.
• To explore the role of vitamin D in optimizing athletic potential.

Main Methods:

• Review of recently published data.
• Analysis of studies on vitamin D supplementation in athletes.
• Examination of vitamin D status in athletic populations.

Main Results:

• Athletes share similar vitamin D deficiency risks with the general population.
• Indoor athletes face a higher risk of vitamin D deficiency.
• Vitamin D supplementation improved muscle function only in athletes with insufficient levels (<50 nmol/l).

Conclusions:

• Few rigorous studies exist on vitamin D supplementation in deficient athletes.
• The optimal 25(OH)D concentration for peak athletic performance remains undetermined.