Estimation of the Dietary Requirement for Vitamin D in Ethnic Groups

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF SURREY · Sep 27, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at how much vitamin D is needed by different ethnic groups living in the UK, especially during the winter months when sunlight, which helps our bodies make vitamin D, is limited. The study will assess how vitamin D3 supplements can help improve immune health, muscle strength, and overall well-being in adults from white European, South Asian, and black African/Caribbean backgrounds. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive different doses of vitamin D3 and their vitamin D levels will be measured to find out the right amount needed for good health.

To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old, self-identify as British white European, black African/Caribbean, or South Asian, and have no major health issues that could affect the results. You should also be living in England for more than two months and be able to speak English or Urdu. Participants will take part in a double-blind trial, meaning neither you nor the researchers will know which dose you are receiving, ensuring the study results are unbiased. It's important to note that if you have certain medical conditions, are pregnant, or have plans for a sunny holiday during the study, you may not be able to participate.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • British white European, black African/Caribbean, or South Asian (self-reported)
• • Living in England for \>2 months
• • Aged \>18 years
• • No significant health issues
• • English or Urdu speaker
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Medical condition or history which might impact study measurements (e.g., ischaemic heart disease, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, thyroid disease, osteoporosis, haematological disease, malignancy)
• • Medications known to affect vitamin D metabolism (i.e., hormone replacement therapy, anti-oestrogens treatment, antiepileptic drugs, and breast cancer treatment)
• • Pregnant or planning pregnancy during the study period
• • Regular use of sun beds
• • Having a sun holiday one month prior to commencing study or plans for a sun holiday within the study period. A sun holiday is generally defined as a holiday in a sunny resort outside of the UK. The researchers will assess this on a case-by-case basis depending on the time of year and expected weather conditions
• • Reported participation in another clinical trial occurring simultaneously
• • Previous intolerance or allergic reaction to vitamin D