Can vitamin D reduce depression? – Scientists provide the answer

In recent years, scientific research increasingly indicates that vitamin D is important not only for bone health but also has a significant impact on psychological state. The connection between vitamin D deficiency and depression is being particularly actively studied.

As reported by BAKU.WS, according to information published by Harvard Medical School, vitamin D affects certain areas of the brain - especially areas associated with emotional regulation. Since vitamin D receptors are located in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, a deficiency of this substance primarily negatively affects mood.

According to the Mayo Clinic, people with vitamin D deficiency have a 2-3 times higher risk of developing depression. This condition is especially common among residents of regions with insufficient sunlight, particularly during winter months.

A large-scale study conducted in Finland (2018) showed that people with low levels of vitamin D experience significantly stronger depressive symptoms. The study involved more than 2 thousand people, and a statistically significant relationship between vitamin D levels and mood was recorded.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) report that taking vitamin D supplements in some cases can reduce symptoms of mild to moderate depression, however, the effect is not the same for everyone. Researchers emphasize that this vitamin is not a replacement for therapy and medication, but can be an effective auxiliary means.

Who is at risk?

- People who receive little sunlight (office workers, homebodies)

- People with darker skin color

- Individuals with insufficient dietary intake of vitamin D

- Pregnant women and elderly people

Doctors recommend checking vitamin D levels through blood tests and, if deficiency is detected, taking supplements, the dosage and duration of which should be prescribed by a doctor. The diet should include fish, egg yolk, and dairy products enriched with vitamin D.