Low levels of vitamin D can compromise our muscle strength and make us more susceptible to injuries.

Vitamin D is not just about calcium absorption and bone strength. Our muscles also need vitamin D. It is necessary for the better coordination between our nerves and muscles.

People who face lower backaches, difficulty getting up from a sitting position, and not being able to stand in a firm posture may indicate Vitamin D deficiency. Some other symptoms include fatigue, bone pain, and mood changes, like depression. Vitamin D helps prevent muscle cramps that are caused by low levels of calcium in the blood. 

Therefore, to enhance and improve muscle strength and performance, we need a sufficient amount of vitamin D.

Sources of Vitamin D: 

The best source of vitamin D is sunlight. One should expose his/her skin to sunlight exposure for 10-15 minutes between 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. because this is the best time Some dietary sources of vitamin D include fatty fish, egg yolks, fortified cereals, fortified milk and juices, yogurt, and beef liver

Vitamin D for Athletes:

Vitamin D has long been recognized as an important nutrient in maintaining calcium homeostasis within our bodies. More recently, vitamin D has been shown to have a direct effect on skeletal muscles through the vitamin D receptors (VDR). It has led to the recognition that vitamin D may play an important role in function, strength, and recovery of muscles and therefore, increase performance in athletes.

An athlete requires more vitamin D than a normal person. As it helps in proper and efficient muscle contractions which support smooth and fluent activity (running, lifting heavy goods, etc.)

If there would be a vitamin D deficiency in athletes, they may be at an increased risk for potential problems such as stress fractures, respiratory infections, and muscle injuries.

Role of Vitamin D in Muscle Movement: 

Vitamin D influences the activity of our lower body muscles (lower leg and thigh muscles) leading to certain changes in our walking and standing posture.

Moreover, when we have a better neuromuscular connection, we feel easier to shift our walking posture and get up from a sitting position.

When our abdominal muscles are healthier, we have less risk of getting backaches

So, if a person wants to avoid these muscle-related issues, he/she should add an adequate amount of Vitamin D to the diet. 

Best Vitamin D Supplements for Muscles:

1.    Nucal-Z

Nutrifactor’s Nucal-Z is a dietary supplement which contains 4 essential nutrients, calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, and zinc, to support stronger bones and healthier muscles.

Calcium is an important mineral responsible for optimal bone health. It assists in proper muscle contraction and healthy nerve conduction. It also helps maintain normal electrolyte balance. Vitamin D3 helps to improve bone health by enhancing calcium absorption in the body.

Take 2 tablets daily as a dietary supplement, preferably after the meal or as directed by a healthcare professional.

2.    Nucal-M

Nutrifactor’s Nucal-M is a dietary supplement containing Calcium, Magnesium, and Vitamin D3, which helps to strengthen bones and muscles. It supports normal muscle and nerve functions.

Take 2-3 tablets daily as a dietary supplement, preferably after the meal or as directed by a healthcare professional.

References: 

•    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23371942/

•    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3738435/