Vitamin D deficiency can increase the risk of osteoporosis, some cancers and inflammatory diseases. Approximately 50 percent of Americans are vitamin D deficient. Vitamin D is made by the skin on exposure to sunlight. Now research reports that vitamin D boosts the male sex hormone testosterone. Low testosterone levels can increase the risk of erectile dysfunction, muscle loss, osteoporosis and depression.
The study, published in Clinical Endocrinology, investigated the association of vitamin D (25(OH)D) levels with testosterone. Researchers at the Medical University of Graz, Austria, analyzed the blood samples of nearly 2,300 men referred for coronary angiography from 1997 – 2000. The researchers assayed the participants’ blood for testosterone and vitamin D levels.
The researchers found that higher levels of vitamin D (greater than 30 mug/l) were linked with significantly higher levels of testosterone. Furthermore, testosterone and vitamin D levels were highest in August and lowest in March.
“Androgen levels and 25(OH)D levels are associated in men and reveal a concordant seasonal variation,” the study authors conclude. “Randomized controlled trials are warranted to evaluate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on androgen levels.”
Balance Point for Men Promotes Wellness
Progressive Health’s Balance Point for Men is a comprehensive men’s multivitamin nutrient supplement specially designed to promote men’s wellness.
Balance Point for Men contains vitamin D as well as passion promoters, prostate helpers, muscle protectors, bone builders, antioxidant protectors, vitamins, minerals, and vision helpers.
Your Thoughts
Are you taking vitamin D supplements to decrease your risk of deficiency? Tell us about it.
