Identifier

etd-06222012-175202

Degree

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Kinesiology

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

Research suggests that elevated serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) are associated with slowing the development of many age-related chronic diseases. Recent reports also show a positive relationship between 25OHD and muscle synthesis, strength, power and decreased body fat in elderly individuals. However, these findings have not been consistently reported in younger, healthy populations. PURPOSE: To investigate the relationship between 25OHD levels, body composition, measures of aerobic fitness and muscular strength and power in a young, physically active population. METHODS: Thirty-nine active subjects (20 males, 19 females; 23 ± 0.7 years old) reported to the lab six times for testing. Blood was drawn and 25OHD concentrations were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Primary outcomes included: body composition (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, DXA); resting metabolic rate; maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max); power output (Wingate); and strength (eight repetition maximum of bench press, upright row and leg extension and flexion). Primary analysis included all participants, and sub-group analyses on those individuals considered to have sub-optimal serum 25OHD (< 35 ng/mL); LOW (n = 20, 25.97 ± 1.97 ng/mL) and adequate levels of 25OHD (< 35 ng/mL) HIGH (n =19, 44.15 ± 2.17 ng/mL). RESULTS: Half of the subjects (n = 20) exhibited less than optimal 25OHD status, due in part to lack of dietary intake. HIGH males had significantly higher VO2max values when compared to LOW males (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: A high percentage of college-aged male and female individuals may not be consuming enough vitamin D and aerobic fitness may also be linked to vitamin D status.

Date

2012

Document Availability at the Time of Submission

Release the entire work immediately for access worldwide.

Committee Chair

Stewart, Laura

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_theses.1503

Included in

Kinesiology Commons

Share

COinS