Vitamin D: Mind, Muscle, and Mushrooms?

Question:  I read your article on food intolerances and allergies and had a similar question on Vitamin D.  My score is great during the winter when I am supplementing with Vitamin D, but during the summer my blood test was low, even when I am out in the sun without much sun block. I decided to supplement year round and my levels were still lower than the winter. Can you help explain what is going on? I am not a fan of supplementing because I am aware that other nutrients in food may be missing, even with all of the green powders and mixes.

Answer:   Vitamin D was thought of as just a way to support bone, but Vitamin D is far more important and provides a tremendous benefit to athletes. Vitamin D is a secosteroid and is essential for muscle function and the brain. Other benefits include the cardiovascular and endocrine system, but it’s role in muscle repair is a bit of a mystery right now with the current literature. We do know a clear link exists with Vitamin D and hormones, but the exact mechanism at the cellular level is unknown but the relationships are clear.

While Vitamin D is a sunshine vitamin, seasonal variances in blood testing is very difficult to interpret without more information on ethnicity, eating patterns, and even training. For example many athletes in heavy training will find nutrients decrease, mainly from having more liquid meals because of scheduling and appetite differences. During the winter some athletes drink milk and decrease consumption during the hot months of the summer. Some athletes don’t like eating salmon, either by taste, price, or convenience. With lactose intolerance being a problem with some athletes, mushrooms may be a viable option for Vitamin D.

Mushrooms are great sources of nutrients and can be prepared easily. Mushrooms are unique that they are not animal or plant sources, and they can be cooked as well as served raw. Adding mushrooms should make a noticeable impact on your blood profile if you are diligent. For more information you can go to http://mushroominfo.com/ to find out more about the health benefits of mushrooms, including some recipes that are quick and convenient.

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