Ultra-Marathon-Induced Increase in Serum Levels of Vitamin D Metabolites: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

Assessment of Vitamin D Metabolism Disorders in Hemodialysis Patients

BACKGROUND

Patients with end-stage chronic diseases, especially those undergoing hemodialysis (HD), often experience mineral bone disease (MBD), leading to hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, and elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH). Vitamin D deficiency and metabolism disorders are also common, resulting from impaired conversion of 25(OH)D3 to its active form, 1,25(OH)2D3, and reduced inactivation to 24,25(OH)2D3. This study aimed to assess the levels of 25(OH)D2, 25(OH)D3, 24,25(OH)2D3, 3-epi-25(OH)D3, and the vitamin D metabolism ratio (VMR) in patients with maintenance HD.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 66 HD patients (22-90 years, average 61.3 ± 16.4), with a control group of 206 adults without chronic kidney disease (CKD), both without cholecalciferol supplementation.

RESULTS

the HD patients had significantly lower 25(OH)D3 levels (15 ng/mL vs. 22 ng/mL) and higher deficiency rates (69% vs. 39%) compared to the controls. However, both groups showed similarly low levels of optimal vitamin D3. The HD patients had lower 24,25(OH)D3 levels (0.1 vs. 2.1 ng/mL) and a lower VMR (0.9% vs. 9%). 3-epi-25(OH)D3 levels and its ratio to 25(OH)D3 were significantly lower in the HD group. Alphacalcidol supplementation raised 1,25(OH)2D3 levels (30.4 vs. 16.2 pg/mL) without affecting other vitamin D metabolites. The HD patients had higher levels of 25(OH)D2 compared to the controls (0.61 vs. 0.31 ng/mL).

CONCLUSIONS

Vitamin D3 reserves are lower, and both functional deficiency and impaired catabolism of vitamin D3 are present in HD patients compared to the general population. The VMR index is the most sensitive parameter for vitamin D3 deficiency assessment, highlighting the importance of measuring 24,25(OH)D3. Alphacalcidol supplementation increases 1,25(OH)2D3 levels without affecting other vitamin D metabolites. 25(OH)D2 is the only metabolite that was higher in HD patients than the controls.

The effect of an acute bout of exercise on circulating vitamin D metabolite concentrations: a randomised crossover study in healthy adults

The effect of acute exercise on circulating concentrations of vitamin D metabolites is unclear. To address this knowledge gap, we examined the effect of a bout of treadmill-based exercise versus rest on circulating concentrations of 25(OH)D3, 25(OH)D2, 3-epi-25(OH)D3, 24,25(OH)2D3, 1,25(OH)2D3, and vitamin D2 and D3 in healthy men and women. Thirty-three healthy adults (14 females, 41 (15) years, body mass index 26.2 (3.7) kg/m2,V ̇ O 2 max ${{\dot{V}}_{{{{\mathrm{O}}}_{\mathrm{2}}}{\mathrm{max}}}}$ 36.2 (9.2) ml/kg/min; mean (SD)) completed two laboratory visits involving 60 min of moderate-intensity treadmill exercise (60%V ̇ O 2 max ${{\dot{V}}_{{{{\mathrm{O}}}_{\mathrm{2}}}{\mathrm{max}}}}$ ) versus 60 min of seated rest, both in an overnight fasted-state, as part of a randomised crossover design. Venous blood samples were drawn at baseline, immediately (0 h), 1 h and 24 h after the exercise or rest-period. There was a significant time × trial interaction effect for total circulating 25(OH)D (P = 0.0148), 25(OH)D3 (P = 0.0127) and 1,25(OH)2D3 (P = 0.0226). Immediately post-exercise, 25(OH)D, 25(OH)D3 and 1,25(OH)2D3 concentrations were significantly elevated compared to the control resting condition, and 1,25(OH) 2D3 remained significantly elevated 1 h later. Circulating albumin, vitamin D binding protein, calcium and parathyroid hormone were elevated immediately post-exercise. Thus, an acute bout of moderate intensity exercise transiently increases concentrations of circulating 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D3 compared to resting conditions. KEY POINTS: Observational studies suggest that acute exercise might change circulating concentrations of vitamin D metabolites, but this has not been investigated using randomised crossover studies and using robust analytical procedures. In this study, we used a randomised crossover design to examine the effect of a bout of treadmill-based exercise (vs. rest) on circulating concentrations of a wide range of vitamin D metabolites in healthy humans. We show that an acute bout of moderate intensity exercise transiently increases concentrations of circulating 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D3 compared to resting conditions. These findings indicate that regular exercise could lead to transient but regular windows of enhanced vitamin D biological action.

Ubiquinone (Coenzyme Q-10) Supplementation Influences Exercise-Induced Changes in Serum 25(OH)D3 and the Methyl-Arginine Metabolites: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

Researchers have studied the effects of exercise on serum methyl-arginine and vitamin D metabolites; however, the effects of exercise combined with antioxidants are not well documented. Since oxidative stress affects the metabolism of vitamin D and methyl-arginine, we hypothesised that the antioxidant coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) might modulate exercise-induced changes. A group of twenty-eight healthy men participated in this study and were divided into two groups: an experimental group and a control group. The exercise test was performed until exhaustion, with gradually increasing intensity, before and after the 21-day CoQ10 supplementation. Blood samples were collected before, immediately after, and 3 and 24 h after exercise. CoQ10, vitamin D metabolites, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), symmetric dimethylarginine, methylarginine, dimethylamine, arginine, citrulline, and ornithine were analysed in serum samples. CoQ10 supplementation caused a 2.76-fold increase in the concentration of serum CoQ10. Conversely, the 25(OH)D3 concentration increased after exercise only in the placebo group. ADMA increased after exercise before supplementation, but a decrease was observed in the CoQ10 supplementation group 24 h after exercise. In conclusion, our data indicate that CoQ10 supplementation modifies the effects of exercise on vitamin D and methyl-arginine metabolism, suggesting its beneficial effects. These findings contribute to the understanding of how antioxidants like CoQ10 can modulate biochemical responses to exercise, potentially offering new insights for enhancing athletic performance and recovery.

The effect of aquatic training and vitamin D3 supplementation on bone metabolism in postmenopausal obese women

Purpose

Despite prevalence of studies indicating the positive effect of land-based exercise on bone metabolism, there are limited findings regarding the effect of aquatic exercise. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of aquatic training and vitamin D3 supplementation on femur bone mineral density (BMD), serum 25(OH)D, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) in postmenopausal obese women with vitamin D insufficiency.

Methods

40 postmenopausal obese women were randomly divided into four groups of aquatic training + vitamin D3 intake group; (ATD), aquatic training with placebo intake group (AT), vitamin D3 intake group (D), and control group with placebo intake (CON). AT groups performed aerobic aquatic exercises for 8 weeks. Vitamin D3 supplementation groups consumed oral dose of 4000 IU/d for 8 weeks.

Results

The femur BMD was significantly higher in the ATD than the AT and D and CON groups; in AT it was higher than the D and CON groups. Serum 25(OH)D level in the ATD was more than AT and CON, and in the D was more than the CON and AT. PTH in the ATD group was lower compared to AT, D, and CON groups. PTH was lower in the AT and D compared to the CON.

Conclusion

In postmenopausal obese women with vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency, combining vitamin D supplementation and aquatic training was the most effective method for improving bone metabolism; Vitamin D supplementation (alone) was not sufficient to affect some of bone metabolism indices; Aquatic training could not improve serum vitamin D. By priority, ATD, AT, and D indicated better bone related metabolism indices.

Seasonal changes in free 25-(OH)D and vitamin D metabolite ratios and their relationship with psychophysical stress markers in male professional football players

Introduction: Novel markers of vitamin D status are currently being investigated, including free 25-(OH)D (25-(OH)DF) and the vitamin D metabolite ratio (24,25-(OH)2D3:25-(OH)D3; VMR). The VMR may provide additional functional information on vitamin D metabolism in athletes. Therefore, the main objective of the current study was to evaluate 25-(OH)DF, bioavailable 25-(OH)D (25-(OH)DB), VMR, and psychophysical stress markers during different training periods over a half-season. The second aim was to assess the association between vitamin D binding protein (VDBP), total and free 25-(OH)D, VMRs, and psychophysical stress markers in professional football players. Moreover, we examined the relationship between 25-(OH)D3 and vitamin D metabolites (24,25-(OH)2D3, 3-epi-25-(OH)D3) to determine if training loads in different training periods influenced the vitamin D metabolome. Methods: Twenty professional football players were tested at six different time points across half a year (V1-June; V2-July; V3-August; V4-October; V5-December; V6-January). Results: Analyses indicated a significant seasonal rhythm for VDBP, and total 25-(OH)D (25-(OH)DT), 25-(OH)DB, 24,25-(OH)2D3, 3-epi-25-(OH)D3, 25-(OH)D3:24,25-(OH)2D3, and 24,25-(OH)2D3:25-(OH)D3 VMRs throughout the training period. No correlation was detected between 25-(OH)DT, 25-(OH)DB, 25-(OH)DF, vitamin D metabolites, VMRs, VDBP, and ferritin, liver enzymes (aspartate transaminase [AST] and alanine transaminase [ALT]), creatine kinase (CK), cortisol, testosterone, and testosterone-to-cortisol ratio (T/C) in each period (V1-V6). However, there was a strong statistically significant correlation between 25-(OH)D3 and 24,25-(OH)D3 in each training period. Conclusion: In conclusion, a seasonal rhythm was present for VDBP, 25-(OH)DT, 25-(OH)DB, vitamin D metabolites (24,25-(OH)2D3, 3-epi-25-(OH)D3), and VMRs (25-(OH)D3:24,25-(OH)2D3, 25-(OH)D3:3-epi-25-(OH)D3). However, no rhythm was detected for 25-(OH)DF and markers of psychophysical stress (ferritin, liver enzymes, CK, testosterone, cortisol, and T/C ratio). Moreover, the relationships between free and total 25-(OH)D with psychophysical stress markers did not demonstrate the superiority of free over total measurements. Furthermore, training loads in different training periods did not affect resting vitamin D metabolite concentrations in football players.

Nordic Walking training in BungyPump form improves cognitive functions and physical performance and induces changes in amino acids and kynurenine profiles in older adults

Introduction

Although impacts of physical activity on cognitive functions have been intensively investigated, they are still far from being completely understood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 12 weeks of the Nordic Walking training with BungyPump resistance poles (NW-RSA) on the amino acid and kynurenine profiles as well as selected myokine/exerkine concentrations, which may modify the interface between physical and cognitive functions.

Methods

A group of 32 older adults participated in the study. Before and after the intervention, body composition, cognitive functions, and physical performance were assessed. Blood samples were taken before and 1 h after the first and last sessions of the NW-RSA training, to determine circulating levels of exercise-induced proteins, i.e., brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), irisin, kynurenine (KYN), metabolites, and amino acids.

Results

The NW-RSA training induced a significant improvement in cognitive functions and physical performance as well as a reduction in fat mass (p = 0.05). Changes were accompanied by a decline in resting serum BDNF (p = 0.02) and a slight reduction in irisin concentration (p = 0.08). Still, changes in irisin concentration immediately after the NW-RSA intervention depended on shifts in kynurenine-irisin dropped as kynurenine increased. The kynurenine-to-tryptophan and phenylalanine-to-tyrosine ratios decreased significantly, suggesting their possible involvement in the amelioration of cognitive functions. No changes of glucose homeostasis or lipid profile were found. Shifts in the concentrations of selected amino acids might have covered the increased energy demand in response to the NW-RSA training and contributed to an improvement of physical performance.

Conclusion

Regular Nordic Walking training with additional resistance (BungyPump) improved cognitive functions and physical performance. These positive effects were associated with a reduced BDNF concentration and kynurenine-to-tryptophan ratio as well as changes in the amino acid profile.

Metabolism of vitamin D is not affected by sport activity

BACKGROUND

Higher levels of physical activity are related to higher 25-(OH)D levels. Total 25-(OH)D (25-(OH)DT) are routinely used in clinical practice to assess vitamin D, however novel biomarkers are currently being investigated as free 25-(OH)D (25-(OH)DF) or vitamin D metabolite ratios (VMRs). The primary aim of our study was to assess 25-(OH)DF, vitamin D metabolites and VMRs in inactive men and athletes. A secondary aim was to check whether regular physical activity influence on vitamin D metabolome. A tertiary aim was to determine the relationship between 25-(OH)DT, 25-(OH)DF, vitamin D binding protein (VDBP), vitamin D metabolites and VMRs in this cohort.

METHODS

A total of 69 participants (27 inactive men, 18 indoor and 24 outdoor athletes) participated in the study. Vitamin D metabolites (25-(OH)DT, 24,25-(OH)2D3, 3-epi-25-(OH)D3, and 1,25-(OH)2D) were assessed using LC-MS/MS. The 25-(OH)DF concentration was calculated based on serum albumin and VDBP levels.

RESULTS

There were no differences in vitamin D metabolites and VMRs between inactive men and between the two groups of athletes. We showed a strong relationship between 25-(OH)DT, 25-(OH)DF and 24,25-(OH)D3, 3-epi-25(OH)D3, 24,25-(OH)2D3:25-(OH)D3 VMR in each group. Analysis showed that 25-(OH)DT, 25-(OH)DF inversely associated with 25-(OH)D3:24,25-(OH)2D3, 25-(OH)D3:3-epi-25-(OH)D3, 1,25-(OH)2D:24,25-(OH)2D3 ratios in inactive men and athletes (indoor and outdoor).

CONCLUSIONS

On the basis of our results, we concluded that regular long-term physical activity has no effect on the concentration of vitamin D metabolites at rest. Furthermore, free vitamin D does not correlate more strongly with vitamin D metabolites and VMRs compared to total.

Effect of Medically Supervised Prolonged Fasting Therapy on Vitamin D, B12, Body Weight, Body Mass Index, Vitality and Quality of Life: A Randomized Control Trial

Background

Recent research indicates prolonged fasting for more than 7 days is beneficial in priming the vitamin D metabolism. However, methodological limitations in previous studies, such as insufficient sample size and a lack of control group, limits its generalizability. The present study evaluated the impact of prolonged fasting (10 days) on vitamin D, vitamin B12, body mass index (BMI), weight, hemoglobin, vitality and quality of life (QoL) compared to a normal diet.

Methods

This randomized control trial was conducted in an in-patient private yoga and naturopathy setting between February and April 2022. A total of 52 participants (mean age 51.57 ± 13.67 years) with varying medical conditions were randomized into a fasting group (FG) or a normal diet group (NDG) with 26 participants in each group. The FG was on a fasting diet (500 kCal/day) which included holy basil herbal tea, lemon honey water, and water (3 L). The NDG (1500 kCal/day) consumed a routine diet that included Indian bread, pulses, steamed rice, vegetable salads, and beverages.

Results

The FG has shown significant increase in the Vitamin D levels (P = .003, d = 0.475), vitality (P = .006, d = 0.425), physical QoL (P < .001, d = 0.549), psychological QoL (P = .002, d = 0.488), and environmental QoL (P = .004, d = 0.457) compared to NDG. No significant changes were observed in vitamin B12, weight, BMI, haemoglobin, and social QoL. A weak to moderate (ρ = 0.330-0.483) positive correlation was observed between vitality scores and QoL domains, whereas BMI scores showed an inverse correlation (ρ = -.280) with vitamin D levels.

Conclusion

The results suggest that prolonged fasting for 10 days can improve vitamin D levels, improve vitality, and promote quality of life compared to a normal diet. Unlike previous studies, the FG does not differ from the NDG concerning weight and BMI. Nevertheless, fasting may be utilized as an effective tool to tackle vitamin D deficiency and associated health insufficiencies.

Effects of a 4400 km ultra-cycling non-competitive race and related training on body composition and circulating progenitors differentiation

Background

NorthCape4000 (NC4000) is the most participated ultra-endurance cycling race. Eight healthy male Caucasian amateur cyclists were evaluated: (a) before starting the preparation period; (b) in the week preceding NC4000 (after the training period); (c) after NC4000 race, with the aim to identify the effects of ultra-cycling on body composition, aerobic capacity and biochemical parameters as well as on the differentiation of progenitor cells.

Methods

Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) assessed body composition; cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) evaluated aerobic capacity. Differentiation of circulating progenitor cells was evaluated by analyzing the modulation in the expression of relevant transcription factors. In addition, in vitro experiments were performed to investigate the effects of sera of NC4000 participants on adipogenesis and myogenesis. The effects of NC4000 sera on Sestrins and Sirtuin modulation and the promotion of brown adipogenesis in progenitor cells was investigated as well. Two-tailed Student’s paired-test was used to perform statistical analyses.

Results

We observed fat mass decrease after training as well as after NC4000 performance; we also recorded that vitamin D and lipid profiles were affected by ultra-cycling. In addition, our findings demonstrated that post-NC4000 participant’s pooled sera exerted a positive effect in stimulating myogenesis and in inducing brown adipogenesis in progenitor cells.

Conclusions

The training program and Ultra-cycling lead to beneficial effects on body composition and biochemical lipid parameters, as well as changes in differentiation of progenitor cells, with significant increases in brown adipogenesis and in MYOD levels.

Relationship Between Metabolites of Vitamin D, Free 25-(OH)D, and Physical Performance in Indoor and Outdoor Athletes

The potential effects of vitamin D in athletes have received considerable attention in the literature. However, little is known about vitamin D metabolites and their association with physical performance in athletes. Therefore, the aim of our study was to determine the relationship between metabolites of vitamin D, vitamin D binding protein (VDBP), free, bioavailable 25-(OH)D, and physical fitness tests in athletes. A total of 40 indoor and outdoor players (16 judoists and 24 football players) participated in the study. Vitamin D metabolites (25-(OH)D, 24,25-(OH)₂D₃, 3-epi-25-(OH)D₃, and 1,25-(OH)₂D) were assessed using LM-MS/MS. Free 25-(OH)D concentration was evaluated by calculation using serum albumin and VDBP levels. Athletic performance was assessed using handgrip and vertical jump. Our study showed a significant correlation between vitamin D metabolites and handgrip strength and vertical jump variables in indoor players. It demonstrated a significant association between 3-epi-25-(OH)D₃ and vertical jump parameters in outdoor players. The results of our study showed relationship between free, bioavailable 25-(OH)D, and vertical jump variables in indoor players. In conclusion, we provide novel information on the vitamin D metabolites and athletic performance in athletes. Based on the results of our study, we concluded that vitamin D metabolites might be involved in skeletal muscle function in relation to athletic performance.

Exercise: A Possibly Effective Way to Improve Vitamin D Nutritional Status

Vitamin D deficiency has become a widespread public health problem owing to its potential adverse health effects. Generally, the nutritional status of vitamin D depends on sunlight exposure and dietary or supplementary intake. However, recent studies have found that exercise can influence circulating 25(OH)D levels; although, the results have been inconclusive. In this review, we focused on the effect of exercise on circulating vitamin D metabolites and their possible mechanisms. We found that endurance exercise can significantly increase serum 25(OH)D levels in vitamin D-deficient people but has no significant effect on vitamin D-sufficient people. This benefit has not been observed with resistance training. Only chronic endurance exercise training can significantly increase serum 1,25(OH)₂D, and the effect may be sex-dependent. Exercise may influence 25(OH)D levels in the circulation by regulating either the vitamin D metabolites stored in tissues or the utilization by target tissues. The effects of exercise on 25(OH)D levels in the circulation may be dependent on many factors, such as the vitamin D nutritional status, exercise type and intensity, and sex. Therefore, further research on the effects and mechanisms of exercise on vitamin D metabolites is required.

Bariatric Surgery Induced Changes in Blood Cholesterol Are Modulated by Vitamin D Status

The effect of metabolically active bariatric surgery treatment on lipid metabolism is inconclusive. The authors of this study presume that initial vitamin D status may play a regulating role in influencing the beneficial post-effects of bariatric surgery, especially the lipid profile. The biochemical data obtained from 24 patients who had undergone laparoscopic one-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) at baseline, 3 months before the surgery, at the time of surgery, and 6 months later, demonstrate that vitamin D status influenced the postoperative lipid profile. The baseline established the partition line which divided patients into two groups according to the stated calcidiol initial concentration level of 32 ng/mL. The data shows that OAGB induces a decrease in TG and hsCRP while increasing HDL. Conversely, in patients whose 25(OH)D₃ was below 32 ng/mL TC significantly increased while those above this concentration remained in the normal physiological range. The changes induced by OAGB in TG, glucose, and hsCRP were similar in both groups. Unexpectedly, the surgery did not affect vitamin D metabolites. In conclusion, the results of the study suggest that a higher concentration of serum 25(OH)D₃ may enhance the protective effects of OAGB.

Diet, Sun, Physical Activity and Vitamin D Status in Children with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

In the course of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) malabsorption may lead to a vitamin D deficiency and calcium–phosphate misbalance. However, the reports on the vitamin D status in children with IBD are few and ambiguous. Here, we are presenting complex analyses of multiple factors influencing 25OHD levels in IBD children (N = 62; Crohn’s disease n = 34, ulcerative colitis n = 28, mean age 14.4 ± 3.01 years, F/M 23/39) and controls (n = 47, mean age 13.97 ± 2.57, F/M 23/24). Additionally, calcium–phosphate balance parameters and inflammatory markers were obtained. In children with IBD disease, activity and location were defined. Information about therapy, presence of fractures and abdominal surgery were obtained from medical records. All subjects were surveyed on the frequency and extent of exposure to sunlight (forearms, partially legs for at least 30 min a day), physical activity (at least 30 min a day) and diet (3 days diary was analyzed with the program DIETA 5). The mean 25OHD level was higher in IBD patients compared to controls (18.1 ng/mL vs. 15.5 ng/mL; p = 0.03). Only 9.7% of IBD patients and 4.25% of controls had the optimal vitamin D level (30–50 ng/mL). Despite the higher level of 25OHD, young IBD patients showed lower calcium levels in comparison to healthy controls. There was no correlation between the vitamin D level and disease activity or location of gastrointestinal tract lesions. Steroid therapy didn’t have much influence on the vitamin D level while vitamin D was supplemented. Regular sun exposure was significantly more common in the control group compared to the IBD group. We found the highest concentration of vitamin D (24.55 ng/mL) with daily sun exposure. There was no significant correlation between the vitamin D level and frequency of physical activity. The analysis of dietary diaries showed low daily intake of vitamin D in both the IBD and the control group (79.63 vs. 85.14 IU/day). Pediatric patients, both IBD and healthy individuals, require regular monitoring of serum vitamin D level and its adequate supplementation.

Single bout of exercise triggers the increase of vitamin D blood concentration in adolescent trained boys: a pilot study

Vitamin D is necessary for musculoskeletal health, however, the supplementation of vitamin D above the sufficiency level does not bring additional bone mass density (BMD), unlike physical exercise which enhances the bone formatting process. Regular physical activity has been shown to upregulate VDR expression in muscles and to increase circulating vitamin D. Here we investigate whether a single bout of exercise might change 25(OH)D₃ blood concentration and how it affects metabolic response to exercise. Twenty-six boys, 13.8 years old (SD ± 0.7) soccer players, participated in the study. The participants performed one of two types of exercise: the first group performed the VO₂max test until exhaustion, and the second performed three times the repeated 30 s Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT). Blood was collected before, 15 min and one hour after the exercise. The concentration of 25(OH)D₃, parathyroid hormone (PTH), interleukin-6 (IL-6), lactate, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and glycerol were determined. 25(OH)D₃ concentration significantly increased after the exercise in all boys. The most prominent changes in 25(OH)D₃, observed after WAnT, were associated with the rise of PTH. The dimensions of response to the exercises observed through the changes in the concentration of 25(OH)D₃, PTH, NEFA and glycerol were associated with the significant increases of IL-6 level. A single bout of exercise may increase the serum’s 25(OH)D₃ concentration in young trained boys. The intensive interval exercise brings a more potent stimulus to vitamin D fluctuations in young organisms. Our results support the hypothesis that muscles may both store and release 25(OH)D₃.

Nordic Walking Rather Than High Intensity Interval Training Reduced Myostatin Concentration More Effectively in Elderly Subjects and the Range of This Drop Was Modified by Metabolites of Vitamin D

The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent self-isolation exacerbated the problem of insufficient amounts of physical activity and its consequences. At the same time, this revealed the advantage of vitamin D. Thus, there was a need to verify the effects of those forms of training that can be performed independently. In this study, we examined the effects of Nordic walking (NW) and high intensity interval training (HIIT) with regard to the impact of the metabolite vitamin D. We assigned 32 overweight adults (age = 61 ± 12 years) to one of two training groups: NW = 18 and HIIT = 14. Body composition assessment and blood sample collection were conducted before starting the training programs and a day after their completion. NW training induced a significant decrease in myostatin (p = 0.05) concentration; however, the range was dependent on the baseline concentrations of vitamin D metabolites. This drop was accompanied by a significant negative correlation with the decorin concentration. Unexpectedly, NW caused a decrement in both forms of osteocalcin: undercarboxylated (Glu-OC) and carboxylated-type (Gla-OC). The scope of Glu-OC changes was dependent on a baseline concentration of 25(OH)D₂ (r = −0.60, p = 0.01). In contrast, the HIIT protocol did not induce any changes. Overall results revealed that NW diminished the myostatin concentration and that this effect is more pronounced among adults with a sufficient concentration of vitamin D metabolites.

Effect of Exercise-Induced Lipolysis on Serum Vitamin D Level in Obese Children: A Clinical Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND: Low Vitamin D levels associated with obesity have reached an epidemic level all over the world. It has been supposed that the low serum level of Vitamin D3 in obese subjects may be due to an increase in the uptake of Vitamin D3 by adipose tissue. AIM: The current study aimed to investigate the effect of a specially designed exercise program for boosting lipolysis on the Vitamin D level in obese children. METHODS: Thirty obese male children participated in the study. Their age was ranged from 9 to 11 years. The participants were assigned to two groups, Group I (GI) who received endurance exercise (ENE) only and Group II (GII) who received the specially designed exercise for increasing lipolysis (ENE preceded by resistance exercise). Free fatty acids (FFA), glycerol, and 25(OH)D were assessed before and immediately after exercise. RESULTS: FFA and glycerol showed a significant increase in both groups following exercise, while 25(OH)D showed a significant increase only in GII. GII showed significantly higher levels of FFA, glycerol, and 25(OH)D following exercise when it was compared to GI. CONCLUSION: The application of resistance training before ENE could improve the Vitamin D status through increasing the lipolytic activities more than the application of endurance exercise alone.

Vitamin D Status and Its Correlation With Anthropometric and Biochemical Indicators of Cardiometabolic Risk in Serbian Underground Coal Miners in 2016

The status of vitamin D in underground working coal miners and its association with their cardiometabolic health is rarely studied. This study aimed to examine vitamin D (VitD) status in Serbian underground coal miners and to correlate it with anthropometric and laboratory indicators of cardiometabolic risk. Nutritional data (food frequency questionnaire, FFQ, and two times repeated 24 h recall), anthropometric data (including segmental analysis by bio-impedance analyzer TANITA BC-545N), arterial tension, and biochemical and hematological data of 103 coal miners (aged 22-63 years) were correlated with their late summer (early September) serum 25 (OH)D levels (measured by HPLC). 68.9% of the studied coal miners were overweight/obese, and 48.5% had metabolic syndrome. Their mean VitD nutritional intakes were low: 5.3 ± 3.8 μg/day (FFQ) and 4.9 ± 8 μg/day (24 h recalls), but their mean serum 25 (OH)D levels were surprisingly high (143.7 ± 41.4 nmol/L). Only 2.9% of the coal miners had 25(OH)D levels lower than 75 nmol/L (indicating an insufficient/deficient status), while 63.2% had values above 125 nmol/L (upper optimal limit), and even 10.7% had values above 200 nmol/L. There were no statistical differences in 25 (OH)D levels in the coal miners with or without metabolic syndrome (or overweight/obesity). Interestingly, 25(OH)D levels had significant positive correlations with body mass index (BMI), fat mass (FM), fat mass percentage (FM%), limbs FM%, serum triglycerides, GGT, AST, ALT, and ALT/AST ratio, and had significant negative correlations with serum HDL-cholesterol and age. All these correlations were lost after corrections for age, FM, FM%, and legs FM%. In Serbian coal miners, high levels of early September VitD levels were observed, indicating sufficient non-working-hour sun exposure during the summer period. Furthermore, the unexpected positive correlations of VitD levels with anthropometric and biochemical parameters indicative of obesity, metabolic syndrome, and fatty liver disease were found. More research is needed on the VitD status of coal miners (particularly in the winter period) and its relationship with their cardiometabolic status.

Fasting and Exercise Induce Changes in Serum Vitamin D Metabolites in Healthy Men

Background: Vitamin D plays pleiotropic roles in the body and hence, changes in its metabolism and distribution during starvation could play an important role in the adaptive response to famine. We aimed to identify the responses of some vitamin D metabolites to 8 d of fasting and exercise. Methods: A repeated-measures design was implemented, in which 14 male volunteers fasted for 8 d and performed an exercise test before and after fasting. Serum samples were collected on day 1 after night fasting and after 8 d of complete food restriction, before and 1 h and 3 h after exercise. Results: After 8 d of fasting, compared with baseline values, serum 24,25(OH)₂D₃ and 3-epi-25(OH)D₃ levels significantly increased; those of 25(OH)D₃ and 1,25(OH)₂D₃ were unaffected; and those of 25(OH)D₂ decreased. Exercise on the first day of fasting induced an increase in serum 3-epi-25(OH)D₃ levels, while exercise performed after 8 d of fasting induced an increase in 25(OH)D₃, 24,25(OH)₂D₃, 25(OH)D₂, and 3-epi-25(OH)D₃ levels. Conclusion: Increases in 24,25(OH)₂D₃ and 3-epi-25(OH)D₃ levels imply that fasting stimulates vitamin D metabolism. The effects of exercise on serum vitamin D metabolites, which are most pronounced after fasting and in subjects with serum 25(OH)D₃ above 25 ng/mL, support the notion that fasting and exercise augment vitamin D metabolism.

Single High-Dose Vitamin D Supplementation as an Approach for Reducing Ultramarathon-Induced Inflammation: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

Purpose: A growing number of studies indicate the importance of vitamin D supplementation for sports performance. However, the effects of a single high-dose vitamin D supplementation on ultramarathon-induced inflammation have not been investigated. We here analyzed the effect of a single high-dose vitamin D supplementation on the inflammatory marker levels in ultramarathon runners after an ultramarathon run (maximal run 240 km). Methods: In the study, 35 runners (amateurs) were assigned into two groups: single high-dose vitamin D supplementation group, administered vitamin D (150,000 IU) in vegetable oil 24 h before the start of the run (n = 16); and placebo group (n = 19). Blood was collected for analysis 24 h before, immediately after, and 24 h after the run. Results: Serum 25(OH)D levels were significantly increased after the ultramarathon in both groups. The increase was greater in the vitamin D group than in the control group. Based on post-hoc and other analyses, the increase in interleukin 6 and 10, and resistin levels immediately after the run was significantly higher in runners in the control group than that in those in the supplementation group. Leptin, oncostatin M, and metalloproteinase tissue inhibitor levels were significantly decreased in both groups after the run, regardless of the supplementation. Conclusions: Ultramarathon significantly increases the serum 25(OH)D levels. Attenuation of changes in interleukin levels upon vitamin D supplementation confirmed that vitamin D has anti-inflammatory effect on exercise-induced inflammation.

Serum levels of bone formation and resorption markers in relation to vitamin D status in professional gymnastics and physically active men during upper and lower body high-intensity exercise

Purpose/introduction

To compare serum levels of bone turnover markers in athletes and non-athletes, and to evaluate the relationship between serum levels of vitamin D metabolites and exercise-induced changes in biomarker levels.

Methods

Sixteen elite male artistic gymnasts (EG; 21.4 ± 0.8 years-old) and 16 physically active men (the control group, PAM; 20.9 ± 1.2 years-old) performed lower and upper body 30-s Wingate anaerobic tests (LBWT and UBWT, respectively). For biomarker analysis, blood samples were collected before, and 5 and 30 min after exercise. Samples for vitamin D levels were collected before exercise. N-terminal propeptide of type I collagen (PINP) was analysed as a marker of bone formation. C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX) was analysed as a marker of bone resorption.

Results

UBWT fitness readings were better in the EG group than in the PAM group, with no difference in LBWT readings between the groups. UBWT mean power was 8.8% higher in subjects with 25(OH)D₃ levels over 22.50 ng/ml and in those with 24,25(OH)₂D₃ levels over 1.27 ng/ml. Serum CTX levels increased after both tests in the PAM group, with no change in the EG group. PINP levels did not change in either group; however, in PAM subjects with 25(OH)D₃ levels above the median, they were higher than those in EG subjects.

Conclusion

Vitamin D metabolites affect the anaerobic performance and bone turnover markers at rest and after exercise. Further, adaptation to physical activity modulates the effect of anaerobic exercise on bone metabolism markers.

Vitamin D Supplementation Improves the Effects of the Rehabilitation Program on Balance and Pressure Distribution in Patients after Anterior Cervical Interbody Fusion-Randomized Control Trial

STUDY DESIGN

A double-blinded, randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND

Surgery is effective in reducing pain intensity in patients with cervical disc disease. However, functional measurements demonstrated that the results have been not satisfactory enough. Thus, rehabilitation programs combined with the supplementation of vitamin D could play an essential role.

METHODS

The study recruited 30 patients, aged 20 to 70 years, selected for anterior cervical interbody fusion (ACIF). The patients were randomly divided into the placebo (Pl) and vitamin D (3200 IU D3/day) supplemented groups. The functional tests limits of stability (LOS), risk of falls (RFT), postural stability (PST), Romberg test, and foot pressure distribution were performed before supplementation (BS-week 0), five weeks after supplementation (AS-week 5), four weeks after surgery (BSVR-week 9), and 10 weeks after supervising rehabilitation (ASVR-week 19).

RESULTS

The concentration of 25(OH)D3 in the serum, after five weeks of supplementation, was significantly increased, while the Pl group maintained the same. The RFT was significantly reduced after five weeks of vitamin D supplementation. Moreover, a further significant decrease was observed following rehabilitation. In the Pl group, no changes in the RFT were observed. The overall postural stability index (OSI), LOS, and the outcomes of the Romberg test significantly improved in both groups; however, the effects on the OSI were more pronounced in the D3 group at the end of the rehabilitation program.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that vitamin D supplementation positively affected the rehabilitation program in patients implemented four weeks after ACIF by reducing the risk of falls and improving postural stability.