Vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of dementia. A British study followed over 800 senior citizens for six years. Blood levels of vitamin D were assessed at the beginning of the study in 1998. The subjects were tested for attention, decision making and overall cognitive ability at the start of the study, three into the investigation and at the end after six years. People who were deficient in vitamin D were 60 percent more likely to experience mental decline over the course of the study. The investigators point out that randomized, controlled trials are essential to determine whether giving older people vitamin D supplements can help reduce cognitive decline. Until then, however, it seems prudent for people to have their vitamin D levels tested. Prior research has shown that many people are deficient in this crucial nutrient. Low levels are associated with a higher risk of type-2 diabetes, arthritis, infections, hypertension and cancer.
[Archives of Internal Medicine, July, 13, 2010]
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