from University of Southern California
Division 1 college athletes are often
consider physically elite, but a study from
the University of Southern California,
presented to the American Academy of
Orthopaedic Surgeons found more than
one-third of these athletes, especially men,
may have low levels of vitamin D. Vitamin
D deficiency is common across most
populations, but it may be especially critical
for athletes in helping the body absorb
calcium for bone strength and to minimize
injury risk. Researchers also point out
recent studies showing vitamin D levels
have a direct relationship with muscle
power, force, velocity and optimal bone
mass. Vitamin D, known as the sunshine
vitamin, is also found in some foods, such
as fish, and regularly added to milk and
dairy products in the U.S. and available as a
supplement.