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Healio
June 12, 2009
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Plasma vitamin D predicted weight loss in obese individuals

The Endocrine Society's 91st Annual Meeting

There may be a potential role for vitamin D in weight loss, possibly through the effects of adipose metabolism, according to new study data presented Thursday. After 11 weeks of a calorie-restricted weight loss program, obese individuals demonstrated weight loss.

"Sequestration of vitamin D in fat tissue is one likely contributing factor to low circulating concentrations of vitamin D in obese individuals," Shalamar Sibley, MD, MPH, assistant professor of medicine at the University of Minnesota, told Endocrine Today.

"However, another potential contributing factor to this association is that vitamin D deficiency may in some way promote obesity," Sibley added.

During a 750-calorie deficit per day study, plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D concentrations were measured in obese individuals (n=38) at baseline and after 11 weeks. Body composition and fat distribution were also measured.

At baseline, participants had insufficient vitamin D levels, according to the researchers.

After 11 weeks, weight decreased by 0.196 kg more for every 1 ng/mL increase in 25-hydroxycholecalciferol, a precursor form and commonly used indicator of vitamin D status. Participants lost 0.107 kg more for every 1 ng/mL increase in 1,25-dihyroxycholecalciferol, the active/hormonal form of vitamin D.

Additionally, higher levels of vitamin D at baseline predicted increased abdominal subcutaneous fat loss but not lean body mass loss.

Randomized, controlled trials evaluating the role of vitamin D among larger groups of people with closely controlled dietary intake and other weight loss therapies are needed, according to Sibley.

“If it is established that vitamin D does indeed synergistically contribute to standard weight loss approaches, such as reduced-calorie diet, then identification and treatment in an adequate vitamin D status could ultimately have a large public health impact on the obesity epidemic,” she added. – by Christen Haigh

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