Vitamin D deficiency is an inadequate amount of vitamin D in the bloodstream. Vitamin D has links to bone health and to autoimmune diseases and cancers. A new study published in the May 2011 issue of "Journal of Adolescent Health" has even found a connection between vitamin D deficiency and weight gain and obesity. With a rise in both the obesity rate and vitamin D deficiency in the United States, this connection could prove very beneficial in treating both medical issues.
Contributing Factors to Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient easily acquired by the body through sunlight exposure. Also found in oily fish like salmon and in fortified milk, the amount of vitamin D is limited from dietary sources. According to the Institute of Medicine and the Food and Nutrition Board, the recommended daily intake of vitamin D for adults is 600 IU, and the optimal blood level is between 30 mg/ml and 80 mg/ml. Unfortunately, due to an indoor lifestyle and the push by dermatologists to avoid the sun, as many as 75 percent of Americans are vitamin D deficient, according to a study in the "Archives of Internal Medicine."
Contributing Factors to Weight Gain
Weight gain can result from many different factors, including a poor diet and a lack of exercise. Other factors contributing to weight gain may be a lack of sleep, certain medications and medical conditions, stress, a poor metabolism and even your genes.
Connection between Vitamin D and Weight Gain
A 2008 study published in the "Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism" linked vitamin D deficiency to weight gain, as well as a higher risk of general obesity. This study also showed that vitamin D deficiency may cause higher body mass in adolescent girls. Another study published in the "Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism" in April 2011 found that vitamin D deficiency caused children to have higher levels of fat and fat distribution.
Treating Both the Problems
If you believe vitamin D deficiency could be contributing to your weight gain, consult your physician and have a serum vitamin D blood test taken. If the results show vitamin D deficiency, your doctor will begin a treatment plan based on your level of deficiency. Once you have been treated and your vitamin D levels are within the optimal range, you may see a reduction in weight. According to a study by Dr. Shalamar Sibley of the University of Minnesota, presented at The Endocrine Society's 91st Annual Meeting in 2009, adequate levels of vitamin D in the blood at the start of a low-calorie diet can work to predict weight-loss success.
References
- Natural News; Vitamin D Deficiency linked to childhood obesity; David Hutto; May 2, 2011
- Office of Dietary Supplements; Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet: Vitamin D; February 4, 2011
- Scientific American; Vitamin D deficiency soars in the U.S., study says; Jordan Lite; March 23, 2009
- ScienceDaily; Lack Of Vitamin D Causes Weight Gain And Stunts Growth In Girls; December 11, 2008
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: What Causes Overweight and Obesity?
- Physorg; Vitamin D deficiency is associated with different types of obesity in black and white children; April 27, 2011
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