Exploring the Impact of Vitamin D on Tendon Health

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨In this episode, Brodie explores the latest research on vitamin D and its role in tendon health, diving into a 2024 comprehensive review that examines both cell-based and animal studies. You’ll learn how vitamin D influences tendon healing, inflammation, and collagen production—and how low levels could delay your recovery. Plus, Brodie shares practical advice on vitamin D testing, optimal levels, sun exposure, supplementation, and the potential role of vitamin K2.🧠 What You'll Learn:How tendons respond to training and stress via collagen synthesisWhy vitamin D is like a “site manager” during tendon repairThe difference between in vitro (lab) and in vivo (animal) studiesWhat research shows about vitamin D deficiency and tendon healingThe importance of maintaining adequate vitamin D levels (and what’s considered optimal)Whether supplementation is necessary—and how to combine it with vitamin K2🧪 Research Highlight:Study: Exploring the Impact of Vitamin D on Tendon Health: A Comprehensive Review (2024)14 studies analyzed: 5 in vitro, 9 in vivo (mostly animal models)Key takeaway: Vitamin D deficiency may impair tendon healing and increase re-injury risk🛠️ Practical Takeaways:Ask your GP for a 25-hydroxyvitamin D blood testAim for blood levels between 75–125 nmol/L for optimal musculoskeletal healthGet sun exposure for 10–30 mins/day (arms and legs, mid-morning or afternoon)Include dietary sources like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foodsSupplement with 1,000–2,000 IU/day if needed; higher doses may require supervisionIf supplementing long-term, consider pairing vitamin D with vitamin K2 to support bone health and calcium balance🎯 Ideal For:Runners and athletes recovering from tendinopathyPeople looking to optimize tendon repair and performanceAnyone curious about the role of micronutrients in injury recovery