Vitamin D Deficiency as a Predictor of Injury Risk in Sports and Physical Culture

The aim of this publication was to analyze data and findings from leading scientific studies on the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency among various population groups in Ukraine and other countries, particularly among elite athletes. The article presents numerous research findings on the impact of vitamin D deficiency on metabolism in different organs and physiological systems of the human body, emphasizing its potential role as a predictor of injury risk and morbidity during physical exertion or sports activities. The article briefly describes the main physiological functions of vitamin D, its sources, and the factors influencing vitamin D status in modern populations. Additionally, it explores methods for assessing vitamin D levels. A range of pathological conditions associated with vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency is highlighted, including those affecting individuals engaged in physical activity and sports. Thus, vitamin D is a vital regulator of metabolism in various organs and systems of the human body. However, numerous external and internal factors contribute to the widespread prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency across different population groups, particularly among elite athletes, not only in Ukraine but also worldwide. Therefore, monitoring vitamin D status (specifically, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels), especially during the winter-spring period, can help identify individuals with vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency, who should be considered a high-risk group for injury and various health disorders. Timely implementation of therapeutic and preventive measures aimed at normalizing vitamin D levels – such as increasing sun exposure, vitamin D supplementation, rational use of sunscreens, and lifestyle modifications – can help prevent the development of pathological conditions and diseases, including those affecting individuals engaged in sports and physical activity.