A Cross-sectional Study on Vitamin D Levels, Body Mass Index, Physical Activity Level and Life-style Factors in Postmenopausal Women

Abstract

Objective:The aim of this study was to evaluate the vitamin D levels, body mass index (BMI), physical activity levels and life-style factors in postmenopausal women and investigate the correlation between vitamin D levels, BMI and physical activity.Materials and Methods:A total of 100 postmenopausal women were included in this cross-sectional study. Sociodemographic features, life-style factors such as calcium and vitamin D supplementation and sun exposure, and BMI, and 25 hydroxyvitamin vitamin D [25(OH)D3] levels of the participants were recorded. The [International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) Short Form (SF)] was applied to all participants. The correlation between 25(OH)D3, BMI, and IPAQ scores has been investigated. Forty postmenopausal healthy individuals were included in the study for the comparison of physical activity level with the patient group.Results:The mean 25(OH)D3 level of the postmenopausal participants was 18.97±10.0 ng/mL, the mean BMI was 27.93±5.19, and the IPAQ score was 316.15±370.42. Compared with the IPAQ-SF score of the control group, the activity level of the postmenopausal patients was lower (p<0.001). A negative significant correlation between 25(OH)D3 levels and BMI (p<0.001) and a positive significant correlation was observed between 25(OH)D3 levels and IPAQ-SF scores in postmenopausal women (p<0.001).Conclusion:BMI and physical activity levels seem to be associated with vitamin D levels in the postmenopausal period. The importance of vitamin D deficiency, weight control, life-style factors, and physical activity in the postmenopausal period should be emphasized in patients.

Keywords

• vitamin d
• body mass index
• physical activity