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2013-02-06 11:19:58
Obesity can lower vitamin D levels in the body, a study suggests.
The report, in the journal PLOS Medicine, analysed genetic data from 21 studies
- a total of 42,000 people.
It found every 10% rise in body mass index (BMI) - used as an indicator of body
fat - led to a 4% drop of available vitamin D in the body.
As vitamin D is stored in fatty tissue, the authors suggest the larger storage
capacity in obese people may prevent it from circulating in the bloodstream.
BMI it is calculated by taking weight (in kilograms) and dividing it by height
(in metres) squared. Those with a BMI of 30 or above are considered obese.
Lead author Dr Elina Hypponen, from the University College London Institute of
Child Health, said the study "highlights the importance of monitoring and
treating vitamin D deficiency in people who are overweight or obese".
Vitamin D is made in the skin after sun exposure and can be taken in dietary
supplements.
Healthy levels are about 50 nanomole per litre - less than 30 nanomole per
litre can cause the softening and weakening of bones, leading to rickets in
children and osteomalacia in adults.
Prof David Haslam, from the National Obesity Forum, said: "Food intake and
genetics all play a part in obesity - but this research is a reminder that
physical activity, like walking the dog or going for a run out in the sunshine,
shouldn't be forgotten and can help correct both weight and lack of vitamin D."