The Interaction between Vitamin D, Parathyroid Hormone, and Physical Exercise Result in Better Physical Performance in Older Women

Abstract

Introduction: Recently, a new role of vitamin D and PTH interaction in muscle performance has been demonstrated, however, whether this interaction also plays a role in physical performance after exercise remains unknown. Method: The study evaluated the serum levels of vitamin D and PTH, as well as the physical performance of 345 older women aged ≥ 60 years of age, practicing aquatic training (AT) and multifunctional fitness (MF), before and after one year of vitamin D supplementation (21,000 IU/week). Physical performance tests: Timed up-and-go (TUG), arm curl (AC), unipedal balance test with visual control (UB), and the 2-min step test (2MST). Results: There was an effective and predominantly physical activity-dependent increase on vitamin D levels in all supplemented groups as well as decreased values of PTH. In addition, PTH showed a positive correlation with TUG test, and a negative correlation with the 2MST. Conclusion: The interplay between vitamin D, PTH and appropriated physical activity results in a better physical performance in older women.