Vitamin D and Energy Metabolism

A study presented at the Society for Endocrinology annual conference in Harrogate, UK in March 2013 elucidated another aspect of vitamin D and energy metabolism. People with vitamin D deficiency not only have bone problems, but often complain of muscle aches and pains. Mitochondria are the organelles within the cells that are responsible for energy metabolism. Several studies are now showing that vitamin D does affect the ability of the mitochondria to operate at their best. This may improve exercise capacity in athletes, especially those in a slump and with low vitamin D levels. Earlier studies have shown that supplementing the diet of older individuals in nursing homes with  at least 800 IU of vitamin D3 resulted in fewer falls. Having the mitochondria function better might be part of the explanation for this phenomenon.