Vitamin D May Prevent Training Injuries

Low vitamin D levels are associated with decreases in testosterone. Many studies are showing that vitamin D deficiencies are surprisingly common in athletes. Michael Shindle from the Summit Medical Group in Madison, Wisconsin reported that among 89 injured NFL football players, more than two-thirds showed vitamin D deficiency. Normal levels of vitamin D are greater than 32 ng/mL. Twenty-seven players had levels below 20 ng/L and an additional 45 players had levels between 20-31.9 ng/mL. Vitamin D is important for muscle growth and restoration. Those who are weight training should take vitamin D supplements to maximize training gains and prevent injuries. (Paper presented at national meeting of the American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine)