The role of vitamin D in enhancing performance has been a subject of interest. However, according to the comprehensive vitamin D supplementation guide, the current evidence is insufficient to claim that vitamin D directly improves performance. One of the reasons behind this limitation is the lack of well-controlled and adequately large studies. Nevertheless, a recent publication by Professor Neil Walsh's team at Bangor University in Wales sheds light on this matter through two studies.

Study 1: Correlation between Performance and Vitamin D

In this initial study, the researchers examined 967 participants, both men and women, who completed a 1.5-mile run and underwent assessments for maximum dynamic lift and explosive power. Blood samples were taken from all participants to analyze their 25[OH]D levels (a form of vitamin D).

findings

The findings revealed that during winter, only 9% of men and 36% of women had sufficient vitamin D levels. When the researchers analyzed the relationship between vitamin D status and performance measures, they discovered a significant correlation between vitamin D status and endurance performance. This correlation held true for both men and women. Vitamin D status accounted for approximately 5% of the variation in performance, with every 1 nmol/L increase in 25[OH]D resulting in a 0.42-second faster 1.5-mile run. However, there were no notable correlations between vitamin D status and maximum dynamic lift or explosive power.

Study 2: Impact of Supplementation on Performance

In the second study, 137 men were given either simulated sunlight or vitamin D3 supplements, while another group received placebo supplements or placebo simulated light. Both the sunlight and supplement treatments effectively achieved vitamin D sufficiency in 97% of the participants. Surprisingly, the supplementation did not seem to have a noticeable effect on performance. The authors suggest that the duration of the supplementation (12 weeks) might not have been sufficient to observe significant performance improvements.

Conclusions

This recent publication contributes valuable insights to the existing literature on vitamin D and its influence on performance. However, the authors acknowledge certain limitations in their studies. For instance, in study 1, where correlations were identified, it is challenging to determine causality. It is plausible that higher vitamin D levels could enhance performance, but it is also possible that individuals with better performance spend more time in the sun, leading to improved vitamin D status.

As a practical recommendation, we that supplementation should begin before the onset of the winter season to prevent deficiencies, rather than attempting to remedy a pre-existing deficiency during the winter.In summary, while the connection between vitamin D and performance is a topic of interest, more research is needed to establish a definitive link between the two.

‍

If you have any further questions about the topic, then just drop us online by clicking here

‍

Scientific References

1. Carswell AT, Oliver SJ, Wentz LM, Kashi DS, Roberts R, Tang JCY, Izard RM, Jackson S, Allan D, Rhodes LE, Fraser WD, Greeves JP, **Walsh NP.** Influence of **VitaminD** Supplementation by Sunlight or Oral D3 on Exercise Performance. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2018 Dec;50(12):2555-2564