A recent study from Trinity College Dublin sheds light on the complexities of achieving optimal vitamin D levels across diverse populations. Despite extensive research into the determinants of vitamin D, deficiencies remain widespread. Published in Clinical Nutrition on Thursday, 2nd May 2024, the study focuses on understanding vitamin D variations among different ethnic groups residing at northern latitudes.
Dr Margaret M. Brennan, Research Assistant at Trinity College’s Department of Public Health and Primary Care, School of Medicine, and the lead author, highlighted the study’s importance in addressing vitamin D disparities:
“Our work underscores significant differences in vitamin D levels among diverse ethnic groups in northern latitudes, aiming to tackle the persistent public health challenge of vitamin D deficiency.”
The study analysed data from half a million participants in the United Kingdom (UK), calculating individualised estimates of ambient ultraviolet-B (UVB) levels—critical sunlight wavelengths for vitamin D synthesis in the skin.
Key insights emerged from analysing various determinants of vitamin D status and their interactions. Ambient UVB levels were identified as crucial predictors of vitamin D status even in regions like the UK, which receive limited sunlight. Factors such as age, sex, body mass index (BMI), cholesterol levels, and vitamin D supplementation significantly influenced how individuals responded to UVB exposure. For instance, higher BMI and older age were associated with reduced vitamin D production in response to UVB.
Professor Lina Zgaga, Associate Professor of Epidemiology at Trinity College’s Department of Public Health and Primary Care and the principal investigator, commented on the implications of their findings:
“Our research suggests implications for developing personalised recommendations for vitamin D supplementation. It highlights the need to move away from universal approaches towards tailored strategies to optimise vitamin D status.”
Rasha Shraim, a PhD candidate in the Department of Public Health and Primary Care at Trinity College and co-principal investigator, added further context:
“Our study underscores the impact of environmental factors, such as sunlight, on health outcomes. We hope this approach encourages future research and public health initiatives to integrate these factors into health and disease prevention strategies.”
More information: Margaret M. Brennan et al, Ambient ultraviolet-B radiation, supplements and other factors interact to impact vitamin D status differently depending on ethnicity: A cross-sectional study, Clinical Nutrition. DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2024.04.006
Journal information: Clinical Nutrition Provided by Trinity College Dublin
