Effectiveness of Vitamin D Intervention strategies in Saudi Population
Keywords:
Vitamin D, Supplementation, Dietary Modifications, UVB Exposure.Abstract
Introduction:
Vitamin D deficiency is a prevalent issue in Saudi Arabia, affecting a significant portion of the population despite the country's ample sunlight. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the efficacy of various vitamin D interventional strategies, including supplementation, dietary modifications, and UVB exposure, in improving vitamin D status among Saudis. The objective was to provide evidence-based recommendations for addressing vitamin D deficiency effectively within this population.
Methods:
This review systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for interventional studies and clinical trials conducted in the last five years up to 2022. Inclusion criteria were limited to studies that assessed the outcomes of vitamin D status through interventions such as oral supplementation, dietary adjustments, and UVB exposure among the Saudi population. The primary outcome was the change in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed following standardized protocols.
Results:
Eight studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing oral supplementation, dietary interventions, and UVB exposure. The sample sizes ranged from 30 to 500 participants. Oral supplementation was most effective, with serum vitamin D levels increasing by up to 50% in some cases. Dietary modifications resulted in a 15-25% increase, while UVB exposure led to a 30% improvement in vitamin D status. The risk ratio for achieving optimal vitamin D status with high-dose supplementation was 1.5 (95% CI: 1.2 to 1.9.)
Conclusions: The review demonstrates that oral vitamin D supplementation is the most effective strategy for improving vitamin D status among the Saudi population, followed by dietary modifications and UVB exposure. These findings underscore the need for tailored public health strategies to combat vitamin D deficiency in Saudi Arabia. Future research should focus on long-term health outcomes and explore personalized approaches to vitamin D supplementation.
