Vitamin D Levels Linked to Risk of Depression

A recent study has found that low levels of vitamin D are associated with an increased risk of depression.

Participants in the study with vitamin D levels of at least 75 nmol/l had a 43% lower risk of depression when compared with those who had less than 25 nmol/l. Higher levels of vitamin D were also associated with a 67% lower risk of panic attacks.

The study included 7,401 participants who were born in Britain in the year 1958. When they reached the age of 45, the researchers administered questionnaires that assessed depression, anxiety, panic, and phobia.

At age 45, higher levels of vitamin D were associated with lower risk of depression and panic attacks. However, at age 50, lower risk was seen in participants with vitamin D levels between 50 and 80nmol/l, compared to participants with lower or higher levels.

The study was conducted by researchers at the University College London. It was published online ahead of print on January 23, 2013, in the journal Clinical Nutrition.

Previous studies have shown vitamin D to be associated with improved kidney health, reductions in skin cancer, reducing the risk of osteoporosis, improved cardiovascular health, combating diabetes, and improving age related eye degeneration.

Vitamin D can be found in milk, fortified cereals, fish, and eggs. Your body also processes vitamin D from the sun but it becomes harder for our bodies to process it as we age. A high quality vitamin D supplement is always a good option if you feel that you’re not getting enough through diet and sun.