9 hours ago
Scientists name food that turns calories into muscle, not fat
The study found that it 'redirected surplus calories to muscle growth instead of fat storage'
Scientists have revealed that a simple compound found in food can influence whether your body converts calories into 'fat or muscle'. Zest Science, which provides health advice 'developed alongside leading researchers and medical doctors', was referring to a 2024 study about Vitamin D.
On its Instagram page, Zest Science stated that a deficiency in Vitamin D could lead to fatigue, mood swings, muscle weakness, and poor recovery. Astonishingly, up to half of the world's population suffers from a lack of Vitamin D.
They even suggest that you 'could be doing everything right' in terms of exercise, but a lack of Vitamin D could be sabotaging your training. The scientists stated: "Vitamin D decides if the calories you eat turn to fat or muscle. A 2024 study found that Vitamin D redirected surplus calories to muscle growth instead of fat storage.
"High doses of Vitamin D caused a hormonal shift, altering how calories were utilised. They suppressed myostatin - a hormone that blocks muscle growth - increased leptin sensitivity - improving fat metabolism - and boosted resting energy expenditure without changes in food intake or activity.
"Up to 50 per cent of the world's population is Vitamin D deficient. Symptoms include fatigue, mood swings, poor recovery, and muscle weakness. A deficiency equals muscle loss, fat gain, and higher disease risk."
How to consume Vitamin D
The NHS has emphasised the importance of Vitamin D in regulating the levels of calcium and phosphate in our bodies, which are crucial for maintaining healthy bones, teeth, and muscles.
A deficiency in Vitamin D can lead to serious health issues such as rickets and other bone deformities. In adults, it can result in bone pain due to a condition known as osteomalacia.
The Government's advice is that everyone should consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement during the autumn and winter months, as sunlight is typically the primary source of this vital nutrient.
However, there are also numerous foods rich in Vitamin D. These include oily fish like salmon, sardines, trout, herrings, and kippers.
Red meat, particularly beef liver, is another good source, as are eggs, especially the yolks, and canned tuna.
Zest scientists have warned: "You could be doing everything still struggling with fatigue, slow recovery, and stubborn body fat."
They added that optimising Vitamin D levels won't solve all problems, but if you're deficient, it could reduce body fat storage, support muscle growth, and boost your metabolism. "Vitamin D deficiency is sneaky - and shockingly common. Symptoms are easy to dismiss."
