Depression and Vitamin D Deficiency…
According to research, depression may be a symptom of vitamin D deficiency, which is also linked to a 75% higher risk of depression.
Symptoms of depression, such as moodiness, lack of motivation, and tiredness, can be exacerbated by physical symptoms like headaches, stomach aches, dizziness, and muscle pain.
A study of almost 4,000 older adults in Ireland followed them for four years, tracking depression symptoms and vitamin D levels.
The findings revealed that those with a vitamin D deficiency were a whopping 75% more likely to experience depression symptoms.
Additionally, vitamin D has been associated with brain health and linked to Parkinson's disease and dementia.
Dr. Robert Briggs, the lead author of the study, highlighted its significance, calling it "the largest representative and most comprehensive study of depression risk and vitamin D status in older adults ever conducted in Ireland." He believes the findings could inform public health policy, particularly regarding the potential benefits of vitamin D treatment or supplementation for depression.
The impact of vitamin D on depression extends beyond older adults. Another study found that young women with vitamin D deficiency were more likely to experience depressive symptoms and negative thoughts.
Dr. Eamon Laird, a co-author of the study, emphasized the study's implications, stating, "This study shows that vitamin D is associated with a health condition other than bone health." He noted the surprising magnitude of the effect on depression, even after considering other factors. In Ireland, where vitamin D deficiency is common, with one in eight older adults deficient in the summer and one in four deficient in the winter, only around 8% of older Irish adults reported taking a vitamin D supplement.
Final thoughts
These findings highlight the importance of considering your vitamin D levels in relation to your mental health.
If you're experiencing symptoms of depression, discussing vitamin D supplementation with your healthcare provider could be life-changing and beneficial.
Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.
RESEARCH:
The study was published in The Journal of Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine (Briggs et al., 2018).
