VITAMIN D AGAINST DEMENTIA

Vitamin D has strong effects on the brain function, helping ward off memory loss.

Vitamin D is produced when the body is exposed to the sunlight.

An American study was conducted on 382 people between the ages of 60 to 90, who were cognitively normal, had mild cognitive impairment or were suffering from dementia. Their vitamin D concentrations and mental powers were measured every year.

Over 8 years of the follow- up, the result showed that those with low vitamin D levels might have the risk of cognitive decline by two to three times faster than those supplied with adequate vitamin D level. Vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining the bone health, which the body absorbs when in contact with sunlight and through a diet rich in egg yolks, cheese and fish oil.

“It is essential for those who are living in a weather condition with little sunlight or spending too much time indoors to take vitamin D supplements. However, it is recommended to consult doctors for safe and smart uses,” said Professor Joshua Miller of American Department of Nutritional Sciences.

“This work helps us consider whether taking vitamin D supplements could starve off cognitive decline and memory loss in the elderly,” added he.