Ultra-Marathon-Induced Increase in Serum Levels of Vitamin D Metabolites: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial.

PURPOSE

While an increasing number of studies demonstrate the importance of vitamin D for athletic performance, the effects of any type of exercise on vitamin D metabolism are poorly characterized. We aimed to identify the responses of some vitamin D metabolites to ultra-marathon runs.

METHODS

A repeated-measures design was implemented, in which 27 amateur runners were assigned into two groups: those who received a single dose of vitamin D (150,000 IU) 24 h before the start of the marathon ( = 13) and those ( = 14) who received a placebo. Blood samples were collected 24 h before, immediately after, and 24 h after the run.

RESULTS

In both groups of runners, serum 25(OH)D, 24,25(OH)D, and 3--25(OH)D levels significantly increased by 83%, 63%, and 182% after the ultra-marathon, respectively. The increase was most pronounced in the vitamin D group. Body mass and fat mass significantly decreased after the run in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultra-marathon induces the mobilization of vitamin D into the blood. Furthermore, the 24,25(OH)D and 3--25(OH)D increases imply that the exercise stimulates vitamin D metabolism.