Exploring the Impact of Vitamin D on Tendon Health

Sign up for the FREE PHT 5-Day Course HERE
For ALL Other Resources, Visit the Website proximalhamstringtendinopathy.info
Run Smarter AI Assistant: Access personalized, research-based answers to your running and rehab questions. This tool integrates Brodie’s database of research papers and podcast episodes for tailored advice.

In this episode, Brodie explores the latest research on vitamin D and its role in tendon health, diving into a 2024 comprehensive review that examines both cell-based and animal studies. You’ll learn how vitamin D influences tendon healing, inflammation, and collagen production—and how low levels could delay your recovery. Plus, Brodie shares practical advice on vitamin D testing, optimal levels, sun exposure, supplementation, and the potential role of vitamin K2.

What You’ll Learn:

How tendons respond to training and stress via collagen synthesis
Why vitamin D is like a “site manager” during tendon repair
The difference between in vitro (lab) and in vivo (animal) studies
What research shows about vitamin D deficiency and tendon healing
The importance of maintaining adequate vitamin D levels (and what’s considered optimal)
Whether supplementation is necessary—and how to combine it with vitamin K2

Research Highlight:

Study: Exploring the Impact of Vitamin D on Tendon Health: A Comprehensive Review (2024)

14 studies analyzed: 5 in vitro, 9 in vivo (mostly animal models)
Key takeaway: Vitamin D deficiency may impair tendon healing and increase re-injury risk

Practical Takeaways:

Ask your GP for a 25-hydroxyvitamin D blood test
Aim for blood levels between 75–125 nmol/L for optimal musculoskeletal health
Get sun exposure for 10–30 mins/day (arms and legs, mid-morning or afternoon)
Include dietary sources like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods
Supplement with 1,000–2,000 IU/day if needed; higher doses may require supervision
If supplementing long-term, consider pairing vitamin D with vitamin K2 to support bone health and calcium balance

Ideal For:

Runners and athletes recovering from tendinopathy
People looking to optimize tendon repair and performance
Anyone curious about the role of micronutrients in injury recovery

The post Exploring the Impact of Vitamin D on Tendon Health appeared first on The Run Smarter Series.