As Americans are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of vitamin D, new research suggests that weight might play a role in how well your body absorbs it.
The Research Study
Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones, muscles, and immune system function, but many people struggle to get enough from dietary sources. That’s why the importance of safe sun exposure and supplementation with vitamin D-rich foods or supplements is more important than ever. But according to a new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, certain factors can make it harder for our bodies to absorb this important nutrient—including carrying extra pounds.
The researchers looked at data from 940 people who were part of two different studies examining health and lifestyle factors related to vitamin D levels. The participants had their body mass index (BMI) measured, along with other factors such as age, gender, race/ethnicity and whether they used any drugs or supplements containing vitamin D. They also tested their blood levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), which is considered a reliable indicator of overall vitamin D status.
The Findings
Overall, the researchers found that obese individuals had significantly lower levels of 25(OH)D compared to those who were not obese—regardless of other factors like age, gender and supplement use. However, other factors did seem to play a role: People who took supplemental vitamins had higher levels of 25(OH)D compared to those who didn’t take any supplements; while women typically had higher blood concentrations than men.
Interestingly, there was no significant difference between BMI categories when it came to non-supplement users – suggesting that taking supplemental vitamins helps make up for reduced absorption due to obesity. This finding highlights the importance of educating people about supplementing with vitamin D-rich foods or taking over-the-counter supplements if needed – especially since poor absorption rates are likely much worse in countries with lower exposure to sunlight year round (such as northern Europe).
Other Research
Other research has also linked weight gain and obesity with reduced levels of circulating vitamin D3 in the blood stream–which could be due in part to its lipophilic nature (meaning it binds easily to fat). This suggests that excess body fat may interfere with how well your body can absorb and retain important nutrients like Vitamin D3 from dietary sources or sunlight exposure – thus underscoring the importance of maintaining a healthy weight for optimal health!
Conclusion
All in all, this new research serves as an important reminder that weight plays an important role when it comes to how effectively your body absorbs Vitamin D from diet or supplementation–so if you’re struggling with your own Vitamin D intake try making sure you’re eating enough foods rich in this nutrient or consider taking an over-the-counter supplement! Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight can help ensure better absorption rates so don’t forget about incorporating regular physical activity into your weekly routine too!