According to new research, a link exists between higher serum Vitamin D levels and lower plasma Cholesterol levels in primary school children. Children with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels above 80 nmol/l had lower LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and total Cholesterol levels when compare with children whose 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were below 50 nmol/l. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, the major circulating form of Vitamin D, of below 50 nmol/l is considered the threshold value of Vitamin D insufficiency.
Over 500 children between the ages of 6 – 8 years of age participated in this study which was a part of the PANIC (Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children) study, a lifestyle intervention study. The PANIC study produced valuable scientific information regarding the well-being, health and lifestyles of children.
Lifestyle factors like physical activity, spending time outdoors, and a healthy diet may be associated with a higher serum Vitamin D level as well as a lower LDL Cholesterol level. Researchers found the link between a higher serum Vitamin D level and lower LDL Cholesterol level was independent of parental education, physical activity, dietary factors and body adiposity index (a measure of the percentage of your total body mass that is composed of fat).
Vitamin D is also important for bone metabolism. Low serum 25 hydroxyvitamin D levels increase the risk for osteopenia, osteomalacia, and rickets. These new finds in this research provides support for following the daily recommendations for Vitamin D intake, which varies throughout the world.
More research is suggested to determine the reasons for the inverse relationship between serum Vitamin D and plasma lipid levels.
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