Do overweight people need more sunbathing to increase their vitamin D levels? A compilation of 21 studies, conducted among 42,000 people, shows that obesity lowers the rates of this vitamin, essential for bone mineralization and absorption of calcium.
The researchers found that a 10% increase in the Body Mass Index (BMI) would lower the level of vitamin D available in the body by 4%.
Since vitamin D is stored in fat cells, researchers believe that the increased storage capacity in obese people prevents vitamin D from circulating normally in the blood.
“This study highlights the importance of monitoring and treating vitamin D deficiency in obese or overweight people,” says study director Dr Elina Hypponen of the University College London Institute of Child Health.
Vitamin D would play a role in stimulating the immune system and preventing certain cancers, according to some studies. Especially, people deficient in vitamin D are more likely to suffer from osteoporosis, this disease which weakens the bones.
To increase your vitamin D level you can always take food supplements. But the easiest way is to expose yourself more to the sun. Move outdoors as much as possible, this is what Professor David Haslam, of the National Obesity Forum, advises: “we must not forget that physical activity such as walks, helps both to keep in shape and to fill the lack of vitamin D“.
In France, more than 8 in 10 people lack vitamin D, recalled the Institute for Public Health Surveillance. A lack that is most felt in winter. So take advantage of the slightest ray of sunshine to boost your vitamin D reserves!
