Vitamin D may aid in Weight Loss

Posted: Mar 08 in Post-Bariatric Diet by Staff

One of the most important nutrients in the human diet is Vitamin D. Vitamin D is most well-known for its role in the absorption of calcium for bone strength. Those who suffer from obesity want strong bones because they tend to put more strain on their bones, especially near the knees. But those suffering from obesity have another reason to want to consume more vitamin D.

Research funded by the National Institutes of Health, the Pennock Family Endowment and the University of Minnesota found that those who consume more vitamin D lose more abdominal fat than those who have low levels. This study shows that it may be worth your time to discuss ways to obtain more vitamin D with your weight loss surgeon in Macon.

One way to get more vitamin D is to spend more time in the sun, since the human body is able to synthesize vitamin D. Most foods do not contain vitamin D unless they are enriched with the nutrient by food manufacturers. However, some foods in nature do have vitamin D, such as cod, swordfish, salmon, tuna and sardines. Foods that are commonly fortified with vitamin D include orange juice, milk, yogurt and margarine.

Consuming vitamin D by itself will likely not have a huge impact on weight loss, since the body will still store the calories it consumes. Vitamin D should be added to a diet that is low in saturated fats and cholesterol. The weight loss effects of exercise can be increased by exercising outside more often, since the body will receive enough sunlight exposure to make vitamin D. These weight loss strategies can be very effective when combined with medical interventions.