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Effects of vitamin D supplementation during autumn and winter on blood biomarkers and physical performance in runners and non runners

Gervasi M, Fernández-Peña E, Zeppa SD, Annibalini G, Bartolacci A, Formiglio E, Agostini D, Barbato C et al.

Scientific reports, 2026

13 participants · 1 citation

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of an 8-week daily 2000 IU vitamin D₃ supplementation, administered via orodispersible films, on serum vitamin D, leukocyte count, and performance parameters in healthy recreational runners and non-runners, followed by a 12-week post-supplementation follow-up. Forty-five participants were randomized into four groups: supplemented runners (RUN-SUPPL, n = 13, age 33.4 ± 7.5 y), non-supplemented runners (RUN-CON, n = 10, age 34.8 ± 8.6 y), supplemented non-runners (NON-RUN-SUPPL, n = 11, age 29.3 ± 7.5 y), and non-supplemented non-runners (NON-RUN-CON, n = 11, age 28.3 ± 6.0 y). Assessments were conducted at baseline (T0, October, pre-supplementation), post-intervention (T1, December, after 8 weeks), and follow-up (T2, March, 12-weeks post-supplementation). Supplementation significantly increased serum 25(OH)D₃ in runners (30.45 ± 7.0 to 35.35 ± 8.9 ng/mL, p 0.05), while maximal isometric force showed a trend toward improvement in supplemented subjects (p = 0.056). Despite these physiological benefits, no ergogenic effects on aerobic or explosive performance were observed.

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 13 participants or records.

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