About this episode
Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍 For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃♂️📚 - Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓 - The Run Smarter Book 📖 - Access to Research Papers 📄🔍 - & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟 👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨ In this episode, Brodie explores the latest research on vitamin D and its role in tendon health , diving into a 2024 comprehensive review that examines both cell-based and animal studies. You’ll learn how vitamin D influences tendon healing, inflammation, and collagen production—and how low levels could delay your recovery. Plus, Brodie shares practical advice on vitamin D testing, optimal levels, sun exposure, supplementation, and the potential role of vitamin K2. 🧠 What You'll Learn: How tendons respond to training and stress via collagen synthesis Why vitamin D is like a “ site manager ” during tendon repair The difference between in vitro (lab) and in vivo (animal) studies What research shows about vitamin D deficiency and tendon healing The importance of maintaining adequate vitamin D levels (and what’s considered optimal) Whether supplementation is necessary—and how to combine it with vitamin K2 🧪 Research Highlight: Study: Exploring the Impact of Vitamin D on Tendon Health: A Comprehensive Review (2024) 14 studies analyzed: 5 in vitro, 9 in vivo (mostly animal models) Key takeaway: Vitamin D deficiency may impair tendon healing and increase re-injury risk 🛠️ Practical Takeaways: Ask your GP for a 25-hydroxyvitamin D blood test Aim for blood levels between 75–125 nmol/L for optimal musculoskeletal health Get sun exposure for 10–30 mins/day (arms and legs, mid-morning or afternoon) Include dietary sources like fatty fish, egg yolks , and fortified foods Supplement with 1,000–2,000 IU/day if needed; higher doses may require supervision If supplementing long-term, consider pairing vitamin D with vitamin K2 to support bone health and calcium balance 🎯 Ideal For: Runners and athletes recovering from tendinopathy People looking to optimize tendon repair and performance Anyone curious about the role of micronutrients in injury recovery