Associations between vitamin D2 and metabolic indices in institutionalized older adults – a cross-sectional study

Reduced sun exposure and inadequate dietary intake are major contributors to vitamin D deficiency in older adults. While vitamin D3 is well studied, the metabolic role of vitamin D2 (VD2) remains underexplored. This study investigated associations between serum VD2 and selected metabolic indices in an institutionalized elderly population. In our study 95 older adults (mean age: 63±14 years) were assessed for dietary intake, body composition, 25(OH)D, VD2, vitamin D receptor (VDR) protein, and hormones regulating energy homeostasis. Food intake was evaluated via a questionnaire and analyzed using dedicated software. Participants were overweight, with excessive caloric intake and insufficient protein and vitamin D consumption. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations indicated vitamin D deficiency (17.6±23.9 ng/mL). Serum VD2 showed significant positive correlations with insulin (r=0.87, p