Vitamin D and Mental Illness
Abstract: We propose vitamin D plays a role in mental illness based on the following five reasons:
1. Epidemiological evidence shows an association between reduced sun exposure and mental illness.
2. Mental illness is associated with low 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels.
3. Mental illness shows a significant comorbidity with illnesses thought to be associated with vitamin D deficiency.
4. Theoretical models (in vitro or animal evidence) exist to explain how vitamin D deficiency may play a causative role in mental illness.
5. Studies indicate vitamin D improves mental illness.
First, we review recent evidence concerning the hitherto unexpectedly high human requirements for vitamin D. Then, we briefly review the physiology, toxicology, and evidence for widespread vitamin D deficiency.
Vitamin D3 and Solar Power for Optimal Health Find out how vitamin D is essential for proper brain function! After that we review epidemiological evidence that mental illness has increased as humans have migrated out of the sun followed by additional epidemiological evidence that associates vitamin D deficiency with mental illness. Studies associating season of birth with mental illness are briefly reviewed.
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I have read many things about the many benefits of vitamin D and I decided to ask my doctor to test my levels. I have a chronic pain condition and suffer from periods of depression and insomnia. While my levels were on the low end of the normal range, I am supplementing my diet to raise my levels. I have noticed that my pain control has been very good and some of my pain triggers (cold weather) have not bothered me as much as winter approaches. I plan to have my levels tested again in a couple months and will adjust my dose accordingly.