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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

Year: 2025

Type: article

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.

Source: Translational Sports Medicine

DOI: 10.1155/tsm2/2299710