What is known about the vitamin D status and its effects on professional dancers?

Vitamin D is a lipid soluble vitamin, which among others affects bone mineral density, muscle function, the immune system and inflammatory modulation. A deficiency in vitamin D is associated with the development of chronic diseases; however, the status and impact of vitamin D has so far only been studied to a very small extent among professional dancers. The few existing studies have proven that vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency is common among dancers. Very few studies exist with respect to the reduction of injuries by supplementation and the results are contradictory. Regular screening of vitamin D during and after dance training and professional activities should be used to diagnose and prevent vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency. The ramifications of vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency should be further studied in dancers as well as looking at its impact on the frequency of injuries, muscle function and physical performance.