It seems like as a child, taking your vitamins was the worst part of the day, but as you get older you start to see the benefits they have. A recent study revealed that vitamin D isn’t just good for your bones, brain and heart, but it’s been found that people with higher levels of vitamin D in their bodies tend to be more physically fit.
The study published within the European Journal specifically looked at cardiorespiratory fitness within its participants to measure how “efficiently the heart and lungs supply oxygen to the muscles during exercise,” according to Health Magazine. Those who have higher cardiorespiratory fitness are able to exercise harder and for longer periods of time.
Photo: @massy.arias
The researchers compared the vitamin D levels within the participants as well as their cardio fitness levels with the use of a treadmill test. Nearly 2,000 adults in the United States between the ages of 20 and 49 participated in the nationwide study from 2001 until 2004.
“They found that people in the top quartile of vitamin D had cardiorespiratory fitness levels that were 4.3 times higher than those in the bottom quartile. Each 10-point increase in vitamin D was associated with a 0.78-point increase in VO2 max, the measurement for cardiorespiratory fitness,” stated Health Magazine.
Photo: Fitness and Workout
This isn’t the first study that suggested the correlation between vitamin D and athleticism. Shape Magazine shared a study which shared that vitamin D-deficient professional athletes have better sprint times when they’re on a vitamin D supplement. Along with helping athletic abilities, vitamin D levels are also linked to levels of pain and inflammation.
Photo: Brittne Babe
If you’re wondering how to maximize your vitamin D intake, ensuring you’re getting enough sun exposure (with sunscreen on) and partaking in a healthy diet with vitamin D filled foods is a great way to start. If you’re trying to maintain your levels, keeping your exercise and healthy eating habits is the way to go. For those who are in need of some serious TLC in the vitamin D department, supplements can be taken to ensure your levels are regulated.
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