Staying active during the winter months may be key to keeping vitamin D levels steady, according to a new study led by researchers from the Universities of Bath, Cambridge, and Birmingham.
The study found that regular, moderate-intensity indoor exercise significantly reduced the seasonal drop in vitamin D levels particularly in overweight and obese adults, who are more likely to struggle with vitamin D deficiency, reports BBC.
Often called the “sunshine vitamin,” vitamin D is essential for maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and immune function.
But with reduced sunlight exposure between October and April in the UK, levels often dip during the colder months. It's estimated that more than one in ten UK adults are deficient in the vitamin.
Over 50 participants were enrolled in the 10-week study conducted during the winter. Those who exercised four times a week including treadmill walks, a steady bike ride, and high-intensity interval cycling saw a much smaller decline in vitamin D levels (around 15%) compared to a 25% drop among non-exercisers.
Notably, exercise helped preserve the active form of vitamin D, which is crucial for various body functions.
Dr. Oly Perkin from the University of Bath, the lead author of the study, said, “This is the first study to show that exercise alone can protect against the winter dip in vitamin D.”
He emphasized that while supplements are helpful, they may be less effective for people with higher body fat.
“If you're concerned about your vitamin D levels in winter, regular weekly exercise can help—and offers numerous health benefits that supplements alone can't provide.”
Professor Dylan Thompson, also from the University of Bath, added, “This study shows exercise gives you a double benefit for vitamin D. It’s a powerful and natural way to support your health through the darker months.”
Bd-pratidin Egnlish/ Afia
