The effects of vitamin D on depression
A new study published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings suggests depression is linked to low levels of vitamin D.
There were 12,600 participants in the study, ranging in age from 20 to 90. The amount of vitamin D in the blood of each participant was measured by researchers, who also assessed the participants for depression symptoms.
The researchers found that those with lower vitamin D levels were more likely to show symptoms of depression in comparison to those participants who had higher vitamin D levels. This relationship was even stronger in participants who had a history of depression.
It is not understood completely how vitamin D is linked to depression; researchers are not certain if depression is result of low vitamin D, or if low vitamin D levels is caused by depression.
Vitamin D deficiency has also been linked to other conditions, such as heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, some cancers, as well as multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune diseases.
Recently, recommendation levels for vitamin D intake have been increased by the Institute of Medicine. The recommended daily dosage of vitamin D for people between the ages of one and 70 is 600 IUs, and 800 IUs for those 71 and older.
Researcher E. Sherwood Brown, MD, PhD, a professor of psychiatry from the University of Texas Medical Centre in Dallas, says the new findings “add depression to the spectrum of medical illnesses associated with low vitamin D, and people with depression probably should consider a blood test to see if their vitamin D is low and whether supplements may be needed.”
This study is one of the largest to-date that looks at the link between depression and low vitamin D, showing that the two conditions are linked. While past studies have presented mixed results, most have suggested the same conclusion.
Certain foods, such as some types of fish, and fortified dairy products including milk are high in vitamin D. However, many people often do not receive enough through their diet, and that is when vitamin D supplements may be recommended by doctors. But Brown cautions there is no promise that vitamin D supplements will or can cure depression.
Source—WebMD
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