Recent research published in the Journal of Foot & Ankle Surgery, September, 2015, reveals Vitamin D may be the cure to help reduce stress fractures, particularly for those individuals who participate in regular exercise.

The research conducted over three years (between 2011 to 2014) investigated the medical records and examined the vitamin D status of 124 patients with stress fractures.  More than 80% of patients were identified as being vitamin D deficient

News Medical reports the lead investigator, Dr Jason R. Miller, stated, “Based on these findings, we recommend a serum vitamin D level of at least 40 ng/mL to protect against stress fractures, especially for active individuals who enjoy participating in higher impact activities.”

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that assists with bone and muscle development. The nutrient is obtained through skin exposure to sunshine, and via the consumption of certain foods, including fish and dairy products. Research published in the Journal of Foot & Ankle Surgery, has shown that low levels of Vitamin D can lead to stress fractures and reduced bone mineral density.

According to the National Prescribing Service (NPS), Australians identified at high risk of Vitamin D deficiency include those who find it difficult to maintain a balanced diet and achieve sufficient sun exposure, such as:

• People who regularly wear clothing that covers a large portion of their body;
• People who avoid sun exposure because they are at higher risk of skin cancer;
• People who have a have difficulty absorbing Vitamin D from their diet due to particular health conditions;
• People who have naturally dark skin; and
• People restricted to being indoors due to age, illness or disability.

Individuals who participate in regular exercise, as well as those who are considered at high-risk of Vitamin D deficiency may need to maintain higher Vitamin D levels through the use of supplements, says the NPS.