We all know vitamin D as the sunshine vitamin, as you can get it from the sun! This is an important nutrient that helps absorb calcium and phosphorous, minerals that are vital in building bones. It’s also said that vitamin D can help reduce cancer cell growth and inflammation! This is why many people take vitamin D supplements from brands like Pure Encapsulations from Supplement First.
But wait, there’s more to learn about vitamin D, particularly when it comes to working alongside regular exercise. Both exercise and vitamin D are separately known to reduce the risk for heart disease, but what about when having adequate amounts of exercise and vitamin D together?
Read on to find out!
How Exercise Impacts Vitamin D
The assumption is that exercise helps increase vitamin D because of the sun exposure received. About 90% of the vitamin D our bodies need comes from the sun.
That said, there is mixed research in terms of whether we should partake in indoor or outdoor activities since both seem to show positive effects on vitamin D.
People who meet adequate physical activity recommendations and optimal vitamin D levels experienced a reduced risk of cardiovascular events compared to those with low vitamin D levels.
What Vitamin D Does for Exercise
There is one study that shows higher levels of vitamin D are associated with increased exercise capacity.
This is likely because how vitamin D plays a crucial role in heart health. When increasing your vitamin D levels to the recommended amount daily, you may be able to increase your exercise capacity as well, thus improving your heart health.
A study from Harvard also showed that people who exercise regularly and vigorously exhibited higher vitamin D levels!
Supplementing with Vitamin D
Now that you know how exercise and vitamin D go hand in hand, the next question is if you must take supplements from brands like Integrative Therapeutics.
It isn’t completely clear if vitamin D is a driver to improve fitness and vice versa. The speculation is that both work together and mutually benefit from one another. That said, it doesn’t mean you should start supplementing right away.
This is because you might already be getting enough vitamin D already from adequate sun exposure and a healthy diet. That’s why it’s crucial to first check with your doctor if you require vitamin D supplements. Your healthcare provider will be able to conduct tests and determine if you are deficient in certain nutrients and require supplements.
But do note that even if your doctor decides to add vitamin D supplementation to your routine, it might not improve your athletic performance alone. It may provide greater benefits, but you’ll want to first get your nutrients from natural and food sources. This means getting enough sunlight exposure and adding more foods like fish, eggs, and fortified foods to get enough vitamin D.
Before you start taking vitamin D supplements, check with your doctor.
Wrapping It Up
Make sure you get adequate exercise and nutrients like vitamin D through a healthy diet!
