ANIEMEA-P-GB-202600231 | February 2026
Authors:
Richie Kirwan, PhD Candidate
Publish Date:
June 2022 | 6 min
Abstract:
This article by Richie Kirwan, discusses the causal effect that vitamin D potentially has in increasing muscle mass. There is emerging evidence for the importance of vitamin D in musculoskeletal health. Therefore, ensuring adequate serum vitamin D levels is a realistic and easy strategy to improve muscle health. Vitamin D, combined with resistance exercise and adequate protein intake could help improve quality of life and reduce the risk of common, chronic diseases of ageing.
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LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Define what health-span is and the factors associated with improving long-term health.
Understand the impact of age and chronic disease on muscle mass and function.
Explore the benefits of nutrition intervention strategies containing protein and vitamin D.
AUTHOR(S) BIO
RICHIE KIRWAN, PHD CANDIDATE
Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool
Richie Kirwan has a BSc in Biological Sciences from University College Cork, Ireland and an MSc in Nutrition and Metabolism from the University of Barcelona in Spain. He is currently a PhD candidate with a focus on nutrition and exercise in cardiac rehabilitation at Liverpool John Moores University.
Richie has a particular interest in how the food we eat can impact on our health and performance. His current research is focused on the augmentation of muscle mass and how this may reduce the risk of cardiometabolic disease. He is working with Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital to look at clinical interventions in cardiac rehabilitation and is a Research Officer in Active Lifestyles in the Carnegie School of Sport at Leeds Beckett University. Richie has authored a number of publications in peer reviewed journals.
