Vitamin D has been making its way into the news more frequently these days. This attention has been slow in coming but researchers seem interested in making up for lost time.
Vitamin D has long been acknowledged for its role of assisting the body in the absorption of calcium. It is essential for strong, healthy bones. But wait, there's more.
While research is in its early stages, some interesting data has been emerging. Recent studies indicate that there may be a correlation between low levels of Vitamin D and mental deterioration.
And it is possible that a correlation exists between low Vitamin D levels and the danger of loss of balance or falls, for older people.
"But vitamin D also seems to have anti-inflammatory effects that may help keep blood vessels healthy, ensuring nutrient- and oxygen-rich blood flow to brain cells, says Amie Peterson, MD, of Oregon Health & Science University in Portland."
http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/news/20100416/low-vitamin-d-level-tied-to-cognitive-decline?src=RSS_PUBLIC