Vitamin D Status of Females in an Elite Gymnastics Program

OBJECTIVE: Vitamin D plays an important role in calcium and bone metabolism. In Australia it has been assumed that all young athletes have good vitamin D levels. A survey of females in an elite gymnastics program was undertaken to determine their vitamin D and dietary calcium status. DESIGN: Cross-sectional survey. SETTING: Females in an elite gymnastics program at the Australian Institute of Sport. PARTICIPANTS AND OUTCOME MEASURES: Eighteen female gymnasts aged 10-17 years were assessed for vitamin D status (serum 25OHD) and dietary calcium intake. RESULTS: Fifteen were found to have levels below current recommended guidelines for optimal bone health (<75 nmol/L). Six had vitamin D levels below 50 nmol/L. Thirteen of the gymnasts also had daily dietary calcium intakes below the daily recommended intake for their age. CONCLUSIONS: Gymnasts and possibly other indoor athletes should be carefully reviewed for vitamin D and calcium status.