The Most Important Supplement To Take for Mental Health
Spending time in the sun is vital to our mental health, but with a 9-5 work schedule, the winter season, and so much to do-it is harder than ever to get enough Vitamin D.
It is estimated that 1 billion people around the world have a Vitamin D deficiency according to research. Vitamin D supplements are needed more than ever to combat the modern day lifestyle. With psychological and physical effects, Vitamin D is the most important supplement to take and here’s why.
Depression
Depression and Vitamin D deficiency go hand in hand. With depression making someone less likely to spend enough time outdoors in the sun, low Vitamin D levels exacerbate depression. Increasing levels of Vitamin D can help alleviate depressive symptoms.
This connection has been extensively studied.
In one particular study, a high dose of Vitamin D was proven to help lessen depressive symptoms in patients after six months.
Nearly half of young women have low Vitamin D levels; and one third of women in a study with clinical depression had Vitamin D deficiency. Moreover, additional research showed that levels of Vitamin D were 14% lower in patients with major depression.
Mental Disorders
A 2015 study observed the link between Vitamin D and Omega 3 fatty acids to serotonin production with emphasis on ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Impulsive Disorder; correct usage of both Vitamin D and Omega 3 fatty acids helped overall serotonin function and benefited those with mental disorders.
Research over a twenty year period found that 65-70% of those with Schizophrenia have low Vitamin D levels. Not getting enough Vitamin D in an infant’s early years is a risk factor for Schizophrenia in a Finnish study.
Physical Health
According to Dr. James M. Greenblatt, Vitamin D is different from other vitamins because it is a hormone that is crucial to every tissue in the body.
Lower levels of Vitamin D also increases risk for cardiovascular disease. Research suggests those with Vitamin D deficiency were more at risk for heart disease and had higher blood pressure than those with normal Vitamin D levels.
Dementia
Deficiency in Vitamin D increases risk of Alzheimers and Dementia in elderly adults in a 2014 study. Those with a deficiency were 53% more at risk for developing Alzheimers and Dementia.
Signs of a Vitamin D Deficiency
Symptoms may include:
- Fatigue
- Not sleeping well
- Muscle weakness
- Getting sick more frequently
- Pale skin
- Depression
- Hair loss
How to Increase Vitamin D levels
Vitamin D is primarily transferred through the skin. 50-90% is from sun exposure alone. Foods such as fish, eggs, fortified cereals, and fortified orange juice can help stabilize levels.
It is important to consult a doctor before taking a supplement.
Do you take a Vitamin D supplement?