Volunteers needed to join exercise survey

The University of Bath is carrying out a study to see how taking up regular exercise can affect vitamin D levels.

The Vitadex project, which is being funded by a grant from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, needs volunteers.

All participants will be provided with a three-month gym membership, an in-depth report of their physical activity, body composition and diet data, a personalised gym-based exercise programme, and £250 in gift vouchers. Any travel costs related to the study will also be reimbursed.

Vitamin D is produced in our skin when exposed to sunlight and has long been known to be important for healthy bones.

However, it also has a number of other health benefits and low vitamin D levels can influence our muscles, sleep and our immune function.

Some research has linked vitamin D insufficiency to poorer outcomes associated with Covid19, although this research is in its early days. The study aims to shed light on the positive impact physical activity may have on maintaining vitamin D levels regardless of a person’s weight.

The study will be carried out from October to March.

To be eligible the team is looking for people that fit a certain criteria, including a BMI of more than 27.5. To check this go to: www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthyweight/bmi-calculator.

Those interested in signing up must not already be doing sport or regular exercise, and must not smoke. The study is open to people aged 25 to 65. Participants must be generally healthy with no significant medical concerns, and able to undertake exercise.

To sign up, visit www.bath.ac. uk/campaigns/take-part-in-ourstudy-and-exercise-your-way-toa-healthier-vitamin-d-status.