Can the supplementation of vitamin D, sun exposure, and isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic affect the seasonal concentration of 25(OH)D and selected blood parameters among young soccer players in a one-year training season?

OBJECTIVE: This study examined the effect of vitamin D supplementation, sunlight radiationradiation, and home isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic on the seasonal changes in 25(OH)D concentration and selected biomarkers in young soccer players along a one-year training cycle. METHOD: Forty elite young soccer players (age: 17.2 ± 1.16 years, body mass: 70.2 ± 5.84, and body height: 179.1 ± 4.26 cm) participated in the research. Only 24 players completed the measurements during all four time- points (T1-: September 2019, T2-: December 2019, T3-: May 2020, and T4-: August 2020) and were divided into two subgroups: supplemented group (GS) and placebo group (GP). Players from GS received 5,000 IU of vitamin D for 8 weeks (January-MarchJanuary-March 2020). Several biomarkers such as 25(OH)D, white blood cells (WBC), red blood cells (RBC), hemoglobin (HGB), muscle damage markersmarkers, and lipid profile were measured. RESULTS: AnalysisThe analysis of the total group demonstrated significant seasonal changes in 25(OH)D, HGB, asparagine aminotransferaseaminotransferase, and creatine kinase along the one1-year training cycle. The level of 25(OH)D concentrationinconcentration in T4 was significantly (p < 0.001, pη [ = 0.82) higher in both subgroups in comparison to T2 and T3. Moreover, the significant (p = 0.023) but poor (r = -0.23) correlation between 25(OH)D and WBC was calculated. CONCLUSION: Current research confirmed the significant seasonal changes in 25(OH)D concentration during four seasons. 8-weekEight-week vitamin D supplementation had no extended effect on the level of 25(OH)D concentration.

The Level of Selected Blood Parameters in Young Soccer Players in Relation to the Concentration of 25(OH)D at the Beginning and End of Autumn.

This study aimed to demonstrate the changes of selected blood parameters in relation to 25(OH)D concentration during the autumn period in young soccer players. A total of 35 participants' results (age: 17.5 ± 0.6 years, body mass 71.3 ± 6.9 kg) were tested twice: in mid-September and in mid-December and divided into subgroups with regard to two criteria. First, according to the initial level of the 25(OH)D concentration (optimal group­ODG, suboptimal group­SDG), second, according to drops in 25(OH)D concentration (high drop group­HDG, low drop group­LDG). A significant decrease (p < 0.001) in the 25(OH)D concentration was reported in the total group (TGr) and in all subgroups. Blood parameters such as white blood cells, red blood cells, haemoglobin and haematocrit increased significantly (p < 0.05) in TGr during the analysed period of time. The analysis of changes in the lipid profile did not expose significant differences except triglycerides. The asparagine amino transferase and creatine kinase activity decreased significantly after autumn in all analysed groups. The declining level of 25(OH)D concentration should be compensated (e.g., with vitamin D supplementation) during autumn. Applied training loads could also influence the blood parameters variability in young soccer players. Regular measurements of 25(OH)D concentration are helpful in identifying potential drops and allows for the preparation of individual supplementation plans for the players.

Changes of 25(OH)D Concentration, Bone Resorption Markers and Physical Performance as an Effect of Sun Exposure, Supplementation of Vitamin D and Lockdown among Young Soccer Players during a One-Year Training Season.

The main purpose of this research was to demonstrate the changes in 25(OH)D concentration, bone resorption markers, and physical fitness along the one-year training season in young soccer players. A total of 24 young soccer players (age: 17.2 ± 1.16 years, mass: 70.2 ± 5.84, height: 179.1 ± 4.26 cm) were tested at four different time points across one year (T1-September 2019; T2-December 2019; T3-May 2020; T4-August 2020). After T2 (during COVID-19 lockdown), players were divided into a supplemented (GS) group and a placebo group (GP). Variables such as 25(OH)D, calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), parathyroid hormone (PTH), aerobic capacity, speed, and explosive power were measured. Analyses performed for all participants indicated significant changes in all selected blood markers and running speed. The highest values in 25(OH)D were noted during summertime in T1 and T4. After individuals were split into two groups, a two-factorial ANOVA demonstrated a significant time interaction for 25(OH)D, Ca, P, PTH, 30 m sprint, and counter-movement jump. Significant time x group effect was calculated for aerobic capacity. This study confirmed that 25(OH)D concentration varies between four seasons, with the greatest decreases in the low sunlight periods. Vitamin D supplementation did not cause a preventive and long-lasting effect of increasing the 25(OH)D concentration in the young soccer players.

Gender differences in the association between physical activity and obesity in adults with vision and hearing losses.

BACKGROUND: Physical inactivity is strongly associated with obesity, which in turn is a major risk factor for many non-communicable diseases. We examined associations between physical inactivity and obesity in Spanish adults with vision and hearing difficulties and explored differences between men and women. METHODS: Data from the Spanish National Health Survey 2017 were analyzed [n = 23 089 adults (15-103 years, mean age 53.4 ± 18.9 years, 45.9% men)]. Participants self-reported difficulties in seeing and hearing. Physical inactivity (exposure) was evaluated with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form. Obesity (outcome) was defined as body mass index ≥30 kg m-2 based on self-reported weight and height. The association between physical inactivity and obesity was assessed with multivariable logistic regression in people with difficulties seeing and hearing, adjusting for significant covariates. RESULTS: Multivariable logistic regression analyses showed that the association between physical inactivity and obesity was stronger in those with difficulty hearing (OR 1.778, 95% CI 1.215-2.602) compared with difficulty seeing (OR 1.375, 95% CI 1.076-1.756). Gender-stratified analyses showed significant association between physical inactivity and obesity in men who reported difficulty hearing (OR 2.319, 95% CI 1.441-3.735) and difficulty seeing (OR 1.556, 95% CI 1.079-2.244), but not in women. CONCLUSIONS: A significant association between physical inactivity and obesity was observed in Spanish men with vision and hearing difficulties. Physical activity has an important role in the prevention of obesity in men with seeing and hearing difficulties. Active steps should be taken to encourage physical activity to reduce the risk of obesity in people with sensory impairments.

Seasonal Changes in 25(OH)D Concentration in Young Soccer Players-Implication for Bone Resorption Markers and Physical Performance.

Searching for potential relations between changes in 25(OH)D concentration and in physical fitness is an interesting scientific topic. Thus, the main purpose of this study was to investigate the changes in serum concentrations of 25(OH)D in young football players in conjunction with indicators determining bone resorption and physical fitness. A total of 35 young soccer players were tested during the autumn competition period. Biochemical analysis of blood, aerobic capacity, running speed and power tests (Wingate test, squat jump, counter movement jump) were carried out at the beginning and at the end of the competition period. Significant decrements in concentration of 25(OH)D from 33.9 ± 5.87 to 23.7 ± 5.58 ng/mL were noted after the analyzed competition period. There were no significant changes in aerobic capacity along the competition period. Significant improvements were observed in 10 m sprint, 30 m sprint (p < 0.001), maximal power (p = 0.011) and total work capacity (p = 0.024). We found that the effect of changes in the players' physical fitness does not occur in relation to 25 OH(D) concentration but occurs when these changes are analyzed as a function of the duration of the observation period. Changes in physical fitness of soccer players are determined by other factors then 25(OH)D concentration.

Assessment of the diet of male adolescents suffering from type 1 diabetes.

INTRODUCTION: Currently, 5-10% of diabetes patients are teenagers. During this period the influence of peers and observation of their eating habits plays a significant role. Unfortunately, they differ from the principles of proper nutrition, which according to the PTD Diabetes Poland should be introduced as an element of proper metabolic compensation. Aim of the study: To assess the condition and dietary habits of male adolescents with type 1 diabetes and to compare their eating habits to generally accepted standards. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study participants include 20 boys, aged 14.6 ±1.58 years, with type 1 diabetes mellitus treated with a personal insulin pump who were diagnosed using ISPAD criteria. In the study anthropometric and questionnaire methods were used, as well as body composition analysis. RESULTS: In most of the examined subjects, the assessment of nutritional status indicates a proper proportion of adipose tissue (14.72 ±6.25%, 8.71 ±4.10 kg per kg) and muscle mass in the body (28.2 ±6.93 kg). Unfortunately in a significant group of adolescents, the diet is not properly balanced. Particularly the common problem is the excess of total carbohydrates, including simple sugars. CONCLUSIONS: To sum up, despite systematic education of proper nutrition on glycemic control and prevention of acute and chronic complications, the eating habits of male adolescents differ from those of proper nutrition. Additionally, it should be noted that despite the proper results of the body composition analysis, there is a problem with an erroneously balanced diet.

Responses to Low- and High-Intensity Exercise in Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes in Relation to Their Level of VO2 Max.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) on the glycemic changes during low and high intensity exercises in young type 1 diabetic patients. Twenty boys (age: 14.3 ± 1.6 years; height: 171.0 ± 11.3 cm; weight; 59.5 ± 12.8 kg) were divided into low-fit group (LFG, n = 10) and high-fit group (HFG, n = 10). According to the experimental design, participants performed three physical efforts (VO2 max test, mixed aerobic-anaerobic effort and aerobic effort) on the cycloergometer, during which real-time glycemia was measured. Mixed aerobic-anaerobic exercise demanded significantly smaller carbohydrate supplementation (0.2 ± 0.2 g/kg during exercise) than the aerobic test session (0.4 ± 0.3 g/kg during exercise). Moreover, patients with higher VO2 max had lower tendency for glycemic changes during the aerobic effort. The results of the current study suggest that young type 1 diabetic patients should perform different intensity activities using continuous glycemic monitoring system to avoid acute and chronic complications of the disease.

Comparison of physical activity levels in Spanish adults with chronic conditions before and during COVID-19 quarantine.

BACKGROUND: This is the first study analyzing levels of physical activity in a sample of quarantined adults with chronic conditions. The aim of this study was to compare moderate- and vigorous-intensity physical activity levels in Spanish adults with chronic conditions before and during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) quarantine. METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey was administered during the COVID-19 quarantine in Spain. A total of 163 participants with chronic conditions (113 females and 47 males; age range 18-64 years) completed the survey. A total of 26 chronic conditions were included. Participants self-reported average minutes/day of moderate and vigorous physical activity before and during quarantine. Differences in moderate- and vigorous-intensity physical activity levels before and during COVID-19 quarantine (overall, by gender, by age, by number of chronic conditions and by each chronic condition) were assessed by Wilcoxon-signed rank test. RESULTS: During COVID-19 quarantine, there was a significant decrease of moderate-intensity physical activity in Spanish people with chronic conditions (in both males and females, in those aged 18-24, 25-34, 35-44 and 55-64 years, in those with multimorbidity, in those with one/two chronic condition/s, and in those diagnosed with asthma/hypercholesterolaemia/chronic skin disease/haemorrhoids). Also, there was a significant decrease of vigorous-intensity physical activity in Spanish males with chronic conditions and in those with multimorbidity. CONCLUSIONS: These results should be considered to develop effective strategies of physical activity promotion targeting these specific groups when new quarantine or restriction measures are implemented, in order to avoid new significant decreases of physical activity in these vulnerable populations.

Comparison of physical activity levels in Spanish people with diabetes with and without cataracts.

BACKGROUND: The objective was to compare levels of physical activity (PA) in a large sample of Spanish people with diabetes with and without cataracts. To our knowledge, this is the first study comparing PA levels in people with diabetes with and without cataracts in a large representative sample. METHODS: Cross-sectional data from the Spanish National Health Survey 2017 were analyzed (n = 1014 people with diabetes; 43.1% females; age range 15-69 years; mean age 58.4 ± 9.2 years). International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) short form was used to measure PA. Total MET-min week-1 of PA were calculated and participants were divided into two categories according to American Diabetes Association PA guidelines: (i) <600 MET-min week-1. (ii) At least 600 MET-min week-1. Diabetes and cataracts were self-reported in response to the questions 'Have you ever been diagnosed with diabetes/cataracts?' Participants also reported other variables including age, gender, marital status, living as a couple, education, smoking, alcohol consumption and obesity. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS 23.0. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of cataract was 14.0% and the overall prevalence of people doing <600 MET-min week-1 of PA was 35.4%. The prevalence of cataract was significantly lower in those doing more PA (12.1% vs. 17.5%; P = 0.016). Those without cataracts were significantly more active than those with cataracts (1846.8 vs. 1289.4 MET-min week-1; P = 0.001). The adherence to American Diabetes Association PA guidelines was significantly higher in those without cataracts (66.1% vs. 55.6%; P = 0.016). CONCLUSIONS: Interventions to promote PA targeting people with both diabetes and cataracts are warranted.

Acute Responses to Low and High Intensity Exercise in Type 1 Diabetic Adolescents in Relation to Their Level of Serum 25(OH)D.

The main purpose of this study was to investigate the differences in glycaemic reaction in response to various physical activities in 20 young boys (14.4 ± 1.6 years) with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and with either vitamin D deficiency or with suboptimal levels of vitamin D. Participants were divided into two groups (deficiency group-DG, n = 10; suboptimal group-SG, n = 10) according to their vitamin D levels. All patients performed aerobic and mixed (aerobic-anaerobic) physical efforts. During the exercise, the respiratory responses and glucose levels were monitored. Biochemical blood analyses were performed before each physical effort. The oxygen consumption was not significantly lower in SG during both aerobic and mixed effort (4.0% and 5.6%, respectively). The glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) level was higher by 6.1% and the total daily dose of insulin (DDI) was higher by 18.4% in the DG. The differences were not statistically significant. Patients with lower vitamin D levels demonstrated an insignificantly higher glycaemic variability during days with both aerobic and mixed exercises. An appropriate vitamin D concentration in T1DM patients' blood may constitute a prophylactic factor for hyperglycaemia during anaerobic training and hypoglycaemia during aerobic training.

The Association Between Physical Activity and Cataracts Among 17,777 People Aged 15-69 Years Residing in Spain.

PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to assess the association between levels of physical activity (PA) and the presence of cataracts in people aged 15-69 years residing in Spain. METHODS: Cross-sectional data from the Spanish National Health Survey 2017 were analysed (n = 17,777 ≥ 15 years; 52% females; self-weighting sample). The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) short form was used to measure PA. Total PA MET-minutes/week were calculated, and participants were divided into two categories: 1) Less than 600 MET-minutes/week. 2) At least 600 MET-minutes/week, equivalent to meeting current PA recommendations. Cataracts were self-reported in response to the question "Have you ever been diagnosed with cataracts?". Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess associations overall and by age groups (15-49, 50-64, and 65-69 years; 15-49 and 50-69 years). Covariates included in the analysis were sex, education, BMI (Body Mass Index), multimorbidity, smoking, and alcohol consumption. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of cataract was 3.7%, and the overall prevalence of participating in less than 600 MET-minutes/week of PA was 30.2%. In the adjusted overall analysis, less than 600 MET-minutes/week of PA was associated with significantly higher odds for cataract: OR = 1.324 (95% CI = 1.116-1.571). Age-stratified analyses showed that the association between PA and cataract was significant only in the age groups of 65-69 years and 50-69 years. CONCLUSIONS: A significant association between PA and cataract was observed in people aged 15-69 years residing in Spain. Considering the impact on health and quality of life due to reduced PA in people with cataract, at least 600 MET-minutes/week activity should be promoted.

Body Composition, Physical Fitness, Physical Activity and Nutrition in Polish and Spanish Male Students of Sports Sciences: Differences and Correlations.

It is important to study differences in body composition, physical fitness and lifestyle behaviours between university students from different countries to develop country-specific recommendations on health promotion to provide to students when transitioning to university. The present study aimed to analyse differences in body composition, physical fitness and lifestyle behaviours between Polish and Spanish students of Sports Sciences. One-hundred-and-eighty-six male students participated (81 from Poland and 105 from Spain). Polish males were on average 21.5 ± 1.9 yrs old and Spanish males 21.5 ± 2.5. The body composition variables measured were body weight (kg), fat-free mass (FFM, kg and %), fat mass (FM, kg and %), total body water (TBW, kg and %), basal metabolic rate (BMR, kcal), body mass index (BMI, kg/m²), fat-free mass index (FFMI, kg/m²) and fat mass index (FMI, kg/m²). The physical fitness variables measured were squat jump (SJ, height in cm, power in watts and w/kg), countermovement jump (CMJ, height in cm, power in watts and w/kg), running speed (10, 20 and 30 m (time in s)), and progressive aerobic cardiovascular endurance run (PACER, stage, final speed in km/h, distance in m, VO2max in mL/kg/min). Lifestyle variables measured were vigorous physical activity (VPA, days/week, min/week), moderate physical activity (MPA, days/week, min/week), walking (days/week, min/week), sitting (min/week), meals/day, vegetables/day, fruits/day, seafood/week, dairy products/week, sweets, chips, fast food/week, litres of liquid/day, litres of sugary drinks/day, alcohol/week and cigarettes/day. In comparison to Spanish students, Polish students had greater FFM (kg), greater TBW (kg), higher BMR, greater power in SJ, greater height and power in CMJ, lower times in running speed tests (10 and 20 m) and greater consumption of vegetables and liquids. In comparison to Polish students, Spanish students participated in more physical activity, and consumed more seafood, more dairy products, less sugary drinks, less alcohol and less tobacco. VPA and consumption of vegetables and liquids had positive influences on body composition and physical fitness. According to these results, universities should promote a healthy lifestyle in order to improve body composition and physical fitness in male students studying sport science. In the cases of Spain and Poland, special attention should be paid to the weak points detected in this study. This would be useful for avoiding future risk of diseases such as obesity or diabetes.

Vitamin D Supplementation and Physical Activity of Young Soccer Players during High-Intensity Training.

The aim of this study was to confirm that vitamin D supplementation of young soccer players during eight-week high-intensity training would have a significant effect on their motion activity. The subjects were divided into two groups: the experimental one, which was supplemented with vitamin D (SG, n = 20), and the placebo group (PG, n = 16), which was not supplemented with vitamin D. All the players were subjected to the same soccer training, described as High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). The data of the vitamin D status, time motion parameters and heart rate were collected just before and after the intervention. A significant increase in 25(OH)D concentration (119%) was observed in the supplemented group, while the non-supplemented group showed a decrease of 8.4%. Based on the obtained results, it was found that physical activity indicators in the players were significantly improved during small-sided games at the last stage of the experiment. However, taking into account the effect of supplementation with vitamin D, there were no statistically significant differences between the placebo and the supplemented groups; thus, the effect size of the conducted experiment was trivial.