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Sunshine vitamin lowers risk of
depression
Reported May 20, 2010
A recent joint study from Italy and the United States
says there is evidence of a link between insufficient vitamin D, the vitamin
generated by sunshine on the skin and the risk of developing depression,
particularly in the elderly.
With one in four New Zealanders reported to suffer from depression, the
study’s results have come at a pivotal time as the country braces for a
long, cold winter.
Michelle Palmer, Executive Director Natural Products New Zealand says that
taking vitamin D supplements to ensure our bodies receive enough of the
‘sunshine vitamin’ during winter is an important option that all New
Zealanders should consider.
“During winter there are less opportunities for people to experience natural
sunlight so regularly taking the appropriate amount of a vitamin D
supplement can really make a difference to how you feel.
“Vitamin D can mimic the effects of sunlight on the brain
in terms of lifting the mood. With many elderly people susceptible to not
receiving enough sunlight throughout winter, a vitamin D supplement can make
all the difference,” she says.
Depression in the elderly is highly prevalent and can worsen the outcome of
medical conditions the person suffers from, and can increase the risk of
developing other medical conditions.
Dr Shaun Holt, medical advisor and researcher agrees that vitamin D
supplements may be helpful in elevating people’s moods.
“People often report feeling depressed or sad during winter and there is an
increasing body of research showing that a lack of sun exposure may be an
important factor resulting in low levels of vitamin D,” says Dr Holt.
The recent study is not the first time that vitamin D has been linked to
symptoms of depression. Dutch scientists explored the link in 2008 and the
Research Center Oakland highlighted the role of the vitamin in maintaining
brain health, noting the wide distribution of vitamin D receptors throughout
the brain.
Source : Scoop - Independent News |
