While doctors concede that diet, exercise and an aging population are contributing factors to the dramatic increase in the obesity rate, science has begun to expand its investigation to other potential causes. According to nurse practitioner Marcelle Pick, ongoing research continues to suggest a direct relationship between obesity and vitamin D deficiencies.
Significance
With the arrival of the Industrial Revolution, American workers left their country roots and migrated to the city, where their access to natural sunlight was greatly restricted. As of 2011, a large part of the workforce spends their daylight hours indoors, and -- particularly in the winter months -- gets limited sun exposure. While American eating habits changed along with their move to the indoor workplace, the rapid increase in obesity in the past few decades suggests to some that there may be additional factors beyond the fast food diet.
Expert Insight
Because Vitamin D helps to regulate insulin secretion, a deficiency affects the body's metabolism and may be a precursor to diabetes and obesity. In one study conducted by the University of Minnesota and presented at the Endocrine Society's 91st Annual Meeting researchers found that pre-diet vitamin D levels correlated with an individual's ability to lose weight. The research suggests that an increase in vitamin D levels along with reduced caloric intake would facilitate weight loss.
Considerations
Based on recommendations from the medical community, doctors advise people of all ages to cover their bodies with sunscreen before going out of doors. Although it may be necessary to wear sunscreen for extended periods in the sun, just 10 or 15 of unprotected exposure to direct sunlight on your face and shoulders will enable your body to create adequate amounts of vitamin D.
Tips
With the exception of fortified dairy products and fatty fish, such as salmon and tuna, food contains minimal amounts of vitamin D. If you are struggling with your weight and think you may be deficient in vitamin D, you can ask your doctor to check your vitamin D levels. While optimum levels range between 30 and 40 nanograms per milliliter, your physician can help you to attain a level that is right for you.
References
- "New York Times"; Obesity Rates Keep Rising, Troubling Health Officials; Denise Grady; August 2010
- "Scientific American"; Vitamin D Deficiency Soars in the U.S., Study Says; Jordan Lite; March 2009
- Women to Women; Essential Nutrition for Healthy Weight; Marcelle Pick; May 2011
- Medical News Today; Link Between Successful Weight Loss And Vitamin D Levels
- Natural News; More Doctors Are Finally Testing Patients For Vitamin D Deficiencies; David Gutierrez; September 2010
- Women to Women; Is Vitamin D Deficiency Casting a Cloud Over Your Health?; Marcelle Pick
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