A recent study which was published in the journal PloS Medicine by British researchers, indicates that obesity can lead to a vitamin D deficiency.

Data from approximately 165,000 people was examined, and researchers found that a 10 percent rise in body-mass index, which is a measurement of body fat based on height and weight, was associated with a 4 percent drop in the levels of vitamin D circulating in the body. This link was evident in men and women and all age groups. While a higher body-mass index leads to lower levels of vitamin D, the opposite does not hold true, lower levels of vitamin D have little effect on the body-mass index.

The fight to reduce obesity may help reduce the levels of vitamin D deficiency in the world. In the past, studies have found a link between vitamin D deficiency and obesity, but which came first, the obesity or the lack of vitamin D, was not known.

Vitamin D, which is also called the “Sunshine vitamin” is necessary for healthy bones and other functions in the body and is manufactured by skin exposed to sunlight. It can also be obtained through foods and supplements. Lack of vitamin D is a worldwide health concern. Efforts to combat this situation typically focus on a lack of sun exposure and over use of sunscreens. The link to obesity will now have to be considered.

The study illustrates the importance of monitoring overweight and obese patients for vitamin D deficiency and the adverse effects this lack can cause.

It should be noted that while the study linked a higher body-mass index to lower levels of vitamin D in the body, it didn’t prove a cause and effect situation.

For more information, this article provides a link to more information about vitamin D.

Read the full article here: Vitamin D Loss Attributed to Obesity