Challenges Ahead for a Rational Analysis of Vitamin D in Athletes

Overview

Journal Front Nutr

Specialty Nutritional Sciences

Date 2021 Nov 25

PMID 34820410

Authors

Pedro Araujo

Cioly Mendez-Davila

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Vitamin D is an essential vitamin for the normal formation of bones and calcium absorption. It is synthesized into our body through sunlight exposure and obtained by consuming foods rich in vitamin D (e.g., fatty fish, eggs yolk, dairy products). Its benefits on the health and performance of athletes are well documented. This article outlines some analytical challenges concerning the analytical quantification of vitamin D for its optimal intake, namely, a comprehensive study of the variability of the assay before categorizing any method as the golden standard, assurance of sample comparability to draw meaningful correlations, revision of the intake guidance based on appropriate statistical power analysis, and the implementation of rational strategies for preventing the underlying mechanism of preanalytical factors. Addressing these challenges will enable the effective management of vitamin D in the sports sector.

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