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Low vitamin D levels do not predict the risk of acute exacerbations of COPD

A large prospective cohort study found no relationship between baseline vitamin D levels and the frequency or timing of acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in patients with severe COPD. Vitamin D supplementation is unlikely to have an effect on AECOPD risk in these patients.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 4, 2011

Caucasians who avoid sun exposure more likely to be vitamin D deficient, Stanford study suggests

A Stanford study found that Caucasians who avoid sun exposure have lower blood levels of vitamin D, with a 40% prevalence among all participants increasing to 53% and 56% among those wearing long sleeves and staying in the shade. The use of sunscreen did not significantly affect vitamin D levels due to insufficient application.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalCancer Causes & Control·DateNov 3, 2011

Vitamin D study suggests no mortality benefit for older women

A new study led by Brown University found that vitamin D does not confer benefits against mortality in postmenopausal women, contrary to previous beliefs. The study controlled for key health factors like abdominal obesity and found no association between high or low levels of vitamin D and reduced risk of death.

SourceBrown University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateNov 1, 2011

Pale people may need vitamin D supplements

Researchers at the University of Leeds found that people with fair skin are more likely to have sub-optimal vitamin D levels. The study suggests that these individuals may need vitamin D supplements to maintain optimal health levels, particularly in areas with limited sunlight.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalCancer Causes & Control·DateOct 3, 2011

Vitamin D can help elderly women survive

A systematic review found that vitamin D3 supplementation increased survival in elderly women, particularly those at risk of falls and fractures. The study analyzed 50 randomized trials involving over 94,000 participants and suggested a reduced risk of mortality by approximately 6% with long-term treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateJul 5, 2011

Losing more than 15 percent of body weight significantly boosts vitamin D levels in overweight women

A year-long study of 439 overweight-to-obese postmenopausal women found that losing more than 15% of their body weight significantly increases circulating vitamin D levels. This effect is independent of dietary intake and is not linear, with more substantial increases found in those who lose greater amounts of weight.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMay 25, 2011

Vitamin D increases speed of sperm cells

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen found a positive correlation between serum vitamin D levels and sperm motility in healthy men. Laboratory stimulation with activated vitamin D also increased forward movement of human spermatooza, sparking new hypotheses about the role of vitamin D in male reproduction.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateMay 25, 2011

U of I study: Before you start bone-building meds, try dietary calcium and supplements

A University of Illinois study suggests that increasing dietary calcium and vitamin D or taking supplements can significantly increase bone mineral density and reduce hip fracture risk. The researchers recommend a 'portfolio diet' with adequate protein, less sodium, and more magnesium and potassium for optimal bone health.

Obese adolescents lacking vitamin D

A new study from Hasbro Children's Hospital found that 72% of girls and 91% of boys with obesity have low vitamin D levels. Treatment showed a significant increase in vitamin D levels, but only 28% normalized after one course, highlighting the need for further research.

SourceLifespan·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateApr 27, 2011

Vitamin D unlocks racial differences in blood pressure

A new study identifies vitamin D as a potential contributor to the racial disparity in blood pressure between Blacks and Whites. The research found that low vitamin D levels were associated with elevated blood pressure readings, accounting for a quarter of the difference between the two groups.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateApr 26, 2011

Vitamin D deficiency in cirrhosis

A study found vitamin D deficiency is common in patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis, with severity linked to liver dysfunction. The research highlights the importance of monitoring vitamin D levels in all cirrhosis patients, with further studies needed to determine optimal supplementation.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 15, 2011