If you want to improve the entire functioning of your body’s muscles, vitamin D may be the key. Here we explain how it works.
If you want to improve the entire functioning of your body’s muscles, vitamin D may be the key. Here we explain how it works.
Have you ever felt that your body does not respond to you in the way you would like it when you perform physical activity? Maybe it’s time to optimize muscle function. Now, how? Is there a specific vitamin that can be useful?
Below we will explain why vitamin D is key to muscle function. In this way, you can encourage yourself to consult with your doctor if it would be convenient for you to take a supplement of this nutrient to improve your health and quality of life.
Muscle function and vitamin D
Do you want to improve your muscle function? In that case, you may need to make some changes to your training and eating routine, in addition to checking other indicators; It may even be necessary to supply your body with certain nutrients.
In a study led by the University of Birmingham, it was found that increased levels of vitamin D can improve muscle function.
Therefore, it is considered that this vitamin positively favors the development of muscular strength and power, being an essential nutrient for this tissue.
The key to vitamin D
This work was based on previous findings regarding the relationship between inactive vitamin D levels and body composition.
Participants were measured for their active and inactive vitamin D levels. Some of their physical characteristics, such as lean mass and body fat, were also recorded.
However, scientists say that the appearance of active vitamin D is not linked to body fat. However, it would be related to lean mass.
Lean mass
Likewise, they also highlighted the following: people with an increase in muscle mass and lean mass enjoy a higher level of active vitamin D in their blood flow.
In this sense, one of the authors of this study explained that there is a probability that body fat is associated with high levels of inactive vitamin D. He also noted that lean mass is the “key” to high levels of this nutrient.
More studies are needed
It is transcendental to fully understand the “complete picture and causal mechanisms” analyzed. All with the purpose of helping with the “design” of future studies that contribute to answering the questions about the optimal levels of vitamin D necessary to have healthy muscles.
Vitamin D and muscle function
A study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutritionfound that continued vitamin D deficiency leads to muscle weakness. On the other hand, in elderly people the levels of this vitamin decrease over time.
However, this research showed that this muscle weakness improved with the use of vitamin D supplements. In fact, it is essential for the bones to properly absorb calcium and reduce the formation of body fat.
In addition, supplements of this nutrient could be related to:
A good immune system
Vitamin D is essential for defenses. It helps to quickly and effectively activate the cells of the immune system. Therefore, if we tend to get sick easily, we cannot forget about this nutrient. Our quality of life and health will improve.
Healthy teeth and bones
Do you have cavities or osteoporosis? Having good levels of this micronutrient will help you have healthy teeth and bones, as well as strong and resistant.
It is responsible for allowing calcium to be absorbed by your bones, essential to maintain bone consistency over the years. It also protects you from injury and fractures.
A good nervous system
Calcium is one of the most relevant minerals for the human body. Having the right level will decrease your chances of having bone problems.
It is also necessary for the proper transmission of certain nerve stimuli. Therefore, it is an essential nutrient for nervous balance.
Adequate muscle function
As we saw in previous lines, vitamin D is key to good muscle function. Through a balanced diet, physical training and appropriate exposure to the sun, you will be able to maintain the levels of this micronutrient in the body.
In this way, you will reduce the risk of serious injuries or fractures; especially you will decrease muscle pain; You will also increase your strength, speed and endurance during any physical activity you do.
Vitamin D deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency in the body has become a phenomenon that is increasing globally every day. It is all due to a sedentary lifestyle, aging, poorly balanced diets and poor sun exposure.
This deficiency of this vitamin may be associated with the following harmful effects on muscle health and function:
- Arthritis.
- Fractures
- Diabetes.
- Muscle pains.
- Muscular weakness.
- Athlete injuries.
- Cardiovascular diseases.
- Bowel and colon cancer.
Monitor your vitamin D levels
Remember that exposure to sunlight and a balanced diet help keep vitamin D levels in an optimal range. Its deficit can cause health problems.
Before taking any supplement of this nutrient, go to a specialist who supervises you and certifies that there really is a problem. This will ensure you take care of your body and your muscle function will be optimal.