06/22/2013
Researchers found that taking a probiotic increased a person's Vitamin D levels by more than 25%. According to the article below, it is the first time a link between gut bacteria and absorption of the nutrient has been found.
'This study is adding to the body of knowledge on the microbiome (the community of bacteria in the gut) command and its role in human health,' said Dr Jones, lead study author and chief scientific officer at probiotic company Micropharma Limited.
'Although it has long been known that the gastrointestinal tract plays an active role in the absorption of Vitamin D, these findings showing improved Vitamin D status in response to an orally delivered probiotic are a first, and will inform the development of new products that may be beneficial for people with low Vitamin D levels.'
A variety of factors may reduce Vitamin D absorption, including limited exposure to sunlight, dark skin, obesity, and problems with absorption or ability to convert Vitamin D to its active form.
From the article, "Insufficient Vitamin D contributes to reduced calcium absorption, and by in turn weakening the bones. Researchers are also beginning to discover links between Vitamin D levels and protection against heart disease, autoimmune diseases and diabetes."
The study was published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2345243/Forget-sunshine-If-want-boost-Vitamin-D-levels-pop-PROBIOTIC.html