Summary
This Mendelian randomization study of 307,281 UK Biobank participants provides genetic evidence supporting a causal relationship between higher circulating vitamin D concentrations and improved skeletal muscle health. Genetically predicted higher 25(OH)D was associated with modestly greater grip strength (0.11 kg per 10-unit increase) and skeletal muscle mass (0.01 kg per 10-unit increase), with suggestive evidence for lower probable sarcopenia risk in non-obese individuals (OR 0.92 per 10-unit higher 25(OH)D). The findings were consistent across multiple analytical approaches, though confidence intervals were wide and the associations with sarcopenic obesity were not statistically significant.
Regional applicability
This study was conducted entirely within the United Kingdom using UK Biobank data, making findings directly applicable to UK population health and policy contexts. The large, representative UK sample and use of genetic methods to infer causality provide robust evidence relevant to UK dietary guidelines and clinical practice regarding vitamin D status and musculoskeletal health.
Key measures
Grip strength (kg per 10-unit higher 25(OH)D); skeletal muscle mass (kg per 10-unit higher 25(OH)D); odds ratios for probable sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity; 35 genetic variants used to instrument 25(OH)D
Outcomes reported
The study examined the causal relationship between genetically predicted 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations and skeletal muscle traits (grip strength, arm skeletal muscle mass), probable sarcopenia, and sarcopenic obesity in UK Biobank participants. Genetic analyses yielded estimates of effect size for each outcome, with results stratified by obesity status.
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