Association of serum vitamin D status with dietary intake in adults with overweight and obesity

Vitamin D deficiency is a widespread problem throughout the world, often resulting from impaired synthesis in the skin and insufficient intake. The present study aimed to provide an in-depth analysis of vitamin D intake in individuals who are normal weight, overweight, and obese in relation to plasma vitamin D levels in these individuals. Materials and methods: There were 264 participants in the study. Nutrition was evaluated using the 24-hour memory recall approach. Weight and body composition were determined by expert bioelectrical impedance using Tanita equipment (420 BC MA), while nutritional status was evaluated using anthropometric indicators, including morphological indicators and anthropometric indices. Results: The average daily intake of vitamin D was determined to be 7.6 μg for normal-weight participants, 6.6 μg for individuals who are overweight, and 6.0 μg for subjects who are obese, based on BMI categories. When comparing people who consumed more than 10 μg of vitamin D, the group with adequate vitamin D consumption had the largest relative proportion (37.3%). Those with vitamin D deficiency and obesity class I had the lowest average daily intake of vitamin D (3.3 mcg). The correlation between plasma levels of vitamin D and the main indicators of dietary intake in the subjects, separated by sex and anthropometric parameters, revealed the existence of a weak correlation between plasma levels of vitamin D and individual indicators of dietary intake, such as total fat (g; E%), MUFAs (d; E%), PUFAs (d; E%), magnesium, and retinol. Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency affects many groups worldwide, including Bulgaria’s elderly citizens. In order to address this severe issue, health experts must design health policies and guidelines based on current and future scientific facts, which will only be available through new studies.