Most Older and Darker-Skinned Adults in Northern Britain Are Low on Vitamin D, Even in Summer
Based on: Circannual prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in older and minoritized ethnic adults in Northern Britain: screening outcomes from a clinical trial (ISRCTN13778806).
Researchers screened older adults and people with darker skin tones in northern Britain for vitamin D levels across the year. More than half of older adults and over 70% of ethnic minority adults had insufficient or deficient vitamin D. Summer sunshine did not fix the problem. Sun exposure alone seems to fall short for these groups at higher latitudes.
Key Insight
This study suggests sunlight alone may not maintain vitamin D levels in older or darker-skinned adults at northern latitudes.
Original Paper
Goddard A, Watson A, Tilbury R, Corfe BM, Fairley A
Conflict of Interest Disclosure: Study funded by supplement company BetterYou, though the company was not involved in design or analysis.
Related Studies
Low Vitamin D Linked to Muscle Loss, Especially in People With Diabetes
In a study of over 7,500 older adults, low vitamin D was tied to higher odds of sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss). The link was stronger in those with diabetes. In aged diabetic rats, vitamin D3 supplements improved muscle strength and reduced fat buildup inside muscle fibers.
Weak Grip Strength Linked to Higher Risk of Pneumonia and Sepsis
In over 400,000 UK adults, weaker handgrip strength was tied to higher rates of pneumonia, UTIs, skin infections, and sepsis. Each 5-kg drop in grip raised infection risk by about 5-10%. The link was strongest in underweight people, and inflammation-related proteins like GDF15 partly explained it.
Fitness Apps and Wearables May Boost Steps in Older Adults
Looking at 26 trials with over 4,000 older adults, digital tools like wearables and apps helped people walk about 800 more steps per day and get 46 more minutes of moderate exercise per week. But they didn't significantly cut sitting time or boost light activity. Standalone wearables and tools paired with human coaching worked best.
Disclaimer: Research summaries are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine.