Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency Among Young Elite Soccer Players Living Above 55 Degrees North Latitude and Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Self-Used Preventive Methods

Abstract

The widespread prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among young elite soccer players living above 40° north latitude is a significant issue. Considering the adverse effects of vitamin D deficiency, it is crucial to investigate its prevalence and the effectiveness of self-used preventive strategies among high-risk groups. This study involved 209 young athletes (aged 7-18 years, mean age: 12.79 ± 3.04 years, weight: 50.11 ± 17.75 kg, height: 1.60 ± 0.19 m, and BMI: 18.69 ± 2.75) from a leading soccer academy, residing above 55° north latitude. Blood samples were collected in winter to analyze the total 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. High prevalence of insufficiency (38.3%) and deficiency (26.8%) of 25(OH)D was identified. There were no significant differences in the severity of deficiency among different age groups (6-9 years, 10-14 years, and 15-18 years) or during growth spurts. The analysis of self-used preventive methods showed no significant differences between the compared groups (p=0.149). Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency are widespread among young elite soccer players living above 55° north latitude and training indoors. The effectiveness of self-used preventive methods is considered low.

Keywords: 25(OH)D; nutritional supplement; soccer; vitamin D; vitamin D deficiency; vitamin D insufficiency; young soccer players.