ISSN: 2153-0637
Hadil S Subih
Background: Recently, obesity is diagnosed as a major health issue worldwide and in Jordan due to the fact that 50% of the population in Jordan is diagnosed as obese or overweight. In addition, studies have shown a close relationship between obesity and vitamin D deficiency. Objectives: Our study was designed to examine the impact of a high monthly dose (50,000 IU) of vitamin D3 and calcium supplementation (1200 mg/dl) on the visceral adiposity reduction while improving serum vitamin D status in vitamin D deficient patients visiting the dietitian for weight loss. Also, to evaluate the potential effect of vitamin D supplementation on serum lipid profiles, fasting glucose levels, PTH, TSH, insulin sensitivity and HbA1c. Methods: A total of 45 morbidly obese subjects (BMI (kg/m2)≥30) and vitamin D deficient were randomly assigned to 4 groups, CON group who only received a weight loss diet (n=10). Diet/D group (n=13) received 50,000 IU/week of cholecalciferol in addition to the weight loss regimen, Diet/Ca group (n=10) received 1200 mg/dl calcium in addition to the weight loss regimen. Diet/D/Ca group received 50,000 IU/week of cholecalciferol and 1200 mg/dl/d calcium (n=12). Serum 25 (OH) D, calcium, PTH, TSH, insulin, fasting glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol and HbA1c were measured at baseline and 3 months after supplementation. Results: Three months after supplementation and following a diet, waist circumference was significantly reduced in Diet/D and Diet/D/Ca groups, the most weight reduction % and BMI reduction was observed in Diet/D and Diet/D/Ca as well (p≤0.05). Fasting glucose was reduced in all groups (p≤0.05) which is most likely due to weight loss rather than supplementations. Diet/D and Diet/D/ Ca groups had a significant reduction in PTH levels after 3 months of supplementations when compared with treatment groups (p≤0.05). Finally, Diet/D and Diet/D/Ca groups had a significant reduction of triglycerides and cholesterol levels (p≤0.05). Neither insulin nor TSH had been affected by supplementation. Conclusion: The findings of this study showed that correcting vitamin D deficiency is a very effective approach that should be followed in weight loss regimen when accompanied with a low-caloric diet. Vitamin D also improved lipid profile and PTH as well.