The association between circulating vitamin d levels and body composition in collegiate female athletes

The current study looked at the relationship between serum vitamin D concentrations, vitamin D intake, sunlight exposure, BMI, and body fat percentage in both indoor and outdoor female collegiate athletes during fall and spring seasons. Healthy collegiate female athletes, between the ages of 18-22, had BMI calculated from anthropometric measurements, body fat percentage assessments via dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans, serum vitamin D levels determined via fingerstick and dried blood spots, followed by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). In addition, sunlight badges worn during a 24-hour period assessed sunlight exposure in fall and spring seasons. Estimated dietary vitamin D intake assessed via Vitamin D Food Frequency Questionnaire (VDFFQ), and sunlight habits were assessed via TWU Sunlight Habits Questionnaire (TSHQ). Results: No association between BMI, body fat composition, and vitamin D concentration was observed. Decreased serum D levels were seen in outdoor athletes from fall to spring, and increased levels from fall to spring in indoor athletes. Decreased UV exposure was seen from fall to spring in both groups.