About This Blog:
- Active individuals may want to consider increasing their vitamin D intake, especially if they participate in high impact activities, according to a study in The Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery.
- The journal recently published a study that found vitamin D could reduce the risk of stress fractures and osteoporosis in active and non-active individuals.
- Dr. Mark Giovanini of NeuroMicroSpine explains why vitamin D is important for strong bones and a healthy spine.
Much like calcium, vitamin D is an incredibly beneficial nutrient that supports healthy, strong bones. For those unfamiliar with the source, function, and purpose of this organic compound, vitamin D is a group of fat-soluble secosteroids that works to enhance the intestinal absorption of other nutrients (i.e. calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphate, and zinc).
Vitamin D is typically obtained through diet and the sun’s UV rays. Fortunately, living in a warm, sunny climate allows many people here in Florida to absorb adequate levels of vitamin D. However, overexposure to UVA/UVB rays can lead to skin cancer such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, which is why it’s important Floridians lather up the sunscreen!
Regardless, a report published in The Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery found higher levels of vitamin D can reduce the risk of stress fractures in active individuals. Other reports have found vitamin D can help lower a person’s chance of developing osteoporosis, osteomalacia, and decreased bone mineral density, all of which can negatively affect the health of your spine.
Before coming to this conclusion, investigators reviewed the medical records of patients with possible stress fractures over a three-year period. All of the patient participants had x-rays performed, among other evaluations, on their lower extremities. For those with confirmed stress fractures, vitamin D was recommended for treatment.
Based on their findings, vitamin D levels of at least 40 ng/mL was the recommended dosage for lowering the risk of stress fractures. Doing not only protects bones subject to high impact activities, but the spine as well. Vitamin D inadvertently helps the skeletal system intact because it helps the body absorb calcium and other essential nutrients. If you’re worried about your vitamin D levels, call Dr. Mark Giovanini today!
Through our comprehensive evaluation, we can have the blood tested for inadequate levels of essential vitamins and minerals. Call NeuroMicroSpine today to schedule an appointment with the esteemed spine surgeon, or visit the link to request an appointment below!
For more information on minimally invasive spine surgery or to make an appointment with Dr. Giovanini, please call (850) 934-7545 or visit https://www.neuromicrospine.com/request-appointment.
We hope to see you soon!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.