Relationship between Vitamin D level and metabolic parameters in obese children and response to Vitamin D treatment

OBJECTIVE: Vitamin D deficiency is common in children. The effects of Vitamin D on bone health are well-known. However, its effect on glucose and lipid metabolism in obese children remains controversial. This study projected to evaluate the association between Vitamin D level and glucose, lipid, and bone metabolism parameters in obese children. In addition, the objective of the study was to determine the change in insulin resistance after Vitamin D replacement therapy in obese children with Vitamin D deficiency. METHODS: Hundred fifty children with obesity were included in our retrospective cross-sectional study. The patients were separated into two groups as the study group (serum 25(OH)D level <20 ng/ml) and the control group (serum 25(OH)D level ≥20 ng/ml). Physical examination, body fat mass, and laboratory findings of the two groups were compared. Moreover, patients in the study group were supplemented with Vitamin D 2000 IU/d for 24 weeks. Glucose, insulin levels were analyzed before and after treatment. RESULTS: Body fat mass and percentage were evaluated as more raised in the study group than those in the control group. The study group had a higher level of insulin resistance. There was a significant loss in body weight of patients after treatment in the study group and insulin resistance of the study group decreased after Vitamin D3 treatment. CONCLUSION: Considering the low side effects and affordability of Vitamin D, it would be a reasonable approach to identify serum Vitamin D levels in obese children and to administer a treatment to those with Vitamin D deficiency.