Most practitioners now believe that low levels of vitamin D could be a factor in many health concerns, especially in cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease. While this recent study doesn’t prove that link, it does find that seniors with low vitamin D levels exhibited a greater rate of low thinking skills than those who had adequate vitamin D levels.
Vitamin D is essential for many body functions such as ensuring strong bones by enhancing calcium absorption. In this particular study, researchers wanted to see what type of effect low vitamin D levels had on the cognitive function of seniors of various ethnic backgrounds. The study is notable because they looked at the baseline levels of vitamin D in a multi-ethnic group of volunteers and then compared those levels with their cognitive function. They also assessed how the change in cognitive function correlated with vitamin D status over time.
The study consisted of 382 seniors with an average age of 75. More than half (62%) were women. The largest number of participants were white (41%), African American (29.6%) and Hispanic (25%). In terms of cognitive function, at the beginning of the study 49.5% of the participants were cognitively normal, 32.7% were mildly cognitively impaired, and 17.5% had dementia. The investigators measured vitamin D levels with blood (25 OHD).
The participants in this study resided in the Sacramento Valley of California. Researchers followed up with the participants for about 4.8 years which included having them undergo annual neurological exams and neuropsychological testing at the University of California, Davis, Alzheimer’s Disease Center.
Low Vitamin D Levels = Greater Rate of Cognitive Decline
Researchers found that the baseline average 25 OHD levels were lower for the African American (17.9 ng/mL) and Hispanic participants (17.2 ng/mL) when they were compared with the white subjects (21.7 ng/mL). They also noted that average 25 OHD levels were lower in the dementia group than in the mildly cognitive impaired and cognitively normal groups (16.2, 20.0 and 19.7 ng/mL, respectively). On follow-up, which averaged 4.8 years, researchers found that subjects who had deficient (less than 12 ng/mL) or insufficient (12 to less than 20 ng/mL) vitamin D status had the largest rates of cognitive decline.
Dr. Miller, in the audio portion of the news release, stated: “About 60% of the group, regardless of their race or ethnicity, was low in vitamin D. Those who had low vitamin D levels declined more in short term memory, known as episodic memory, as well as more complex cognitive tasks, known as executive function. They were declining about two and a half times faster than those who had adequate vitamin D.”
“We expected to see declines in individuals with low vitamin D status,” said Charles DeCarli, director of the Alzheimer’s Disease Center. “What was unexpected was how profoundly and rapidly [low vitamin D] impacts cognition. This is a vitamin deficiency that could easily be treated and that has other health consequences. We need to start talking about it. And we need to start talking about it, particularly for people of color, for whom vitamin D deficiency appears to present an even greater risk.”
The study didn’t look at whether taking vitamin D supplements could prevent decline. The researchers call for more studies to determine whether vitamin D supplements can slow cognitive decline.
MORE: Reducing Your Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease
In Closing…
Low vitamin D levels are very common even among those who spend time in the sun. Vitamin D deficiency symptoms can include depression/anxiety, low bone density or fractures, muscle cramps and weakness, blood sugar issues, low immunity, low calcium levels, mood changes, impaired wound healing and irritability and weight gain. If some of these symptoms affect you, it is wise to get your vitamin D levels checked. Ask your doctor for a blood test called the 25-hydroxy vitamin D test (also called Calcidiol 25-hydroxycholecalciferol test). This test is the most accurate way to measure how much vitamin D is in your body.
If you’re looking for a high-quality non-animal-sourced Vitamin D3, I personally use and recommend Suntrex D3. Suntrex D3 is a premium quality vitamin D3 nutritional supplement. It’s produced by extracting oil from hearty, nutrient-dense plants known as lichens. Every batch is analyzed to verify purity and D3 content. Lichen sourced D3 is recognized by the Vegan Society as the one form of D3 suitable for vegans. It’s completely free of toxins and allergens and contains no yeast, wheat, soy, milk, salt, sugar, preservatives or artificial colors. Simply put, if you want the best, this is it. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply prefer a high quality vitamin D3 supplement, Suntrex D3 stands out among the very best.
Research
Miller J, et al. Vitamin D Status and Rates of Cognitive Decline in a Multiethnic Cohort of Older Adults. JAMA Neurol. Published online September 8, 2015. doi:10.1001/jamaneurol.2015.211
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Oasis Advanced Wellness/OAWHealth does not dispense medical advice, prescribe, or diagnose illness. The views and nutritional advice expressed by Oasis Advanced Wellness/OAWHealth are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical service. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician of choice.
Loretta Lanphier, NP
Loretta Lanphier is a Traditional Naturopathic Practitioner, Certified Clinical Nutritionist, Holistic Health Practitioner, and Certified Clinical Herbalist. She is the CEO and Founder of Oasis Advanced Wellness in The Woodlands, Texas.
With more than 25 years of experience in natural health and wellness, Loretta has devoted her career to studying and researching natural medicine, whole-body wellness, hormone wellness, healthy aging, clinical nutrition, weight management, herbal remedies, and non-toxic approaches to cancer support. She remains actively involved in researching and developing natural health protocols, educational resources, and products designed to support the body’s remarkable ability to heal and maintain optimal health.
A Stage 3 colon cancer survivor since 2001, Loretta brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to her work. Having experienced the healing journey from both sides, as a patient and a practitioner, she understands the importance of addressing the whole person and root causes rather than focusing solely on individual health concerns and symptoms. Her personal experience continues to inspire her passion for educating and empowering others to take an active role in their health and well-being.
My passion has always been helping others understand what it takes to keep the whole body healthy through natural, non-toxic approaches that support the body’s God-given ability to heal.
Loretta also serves as Chief Wellness Officer for Dr. Edward Group, DC, contributing to natural health education, wellness program development, and research.
Read Loretta’s personal cancer journey: Cancer: The Path to Healing. Loretta is a Contributor and Editor of the worldwide E-newsletter Advanced Health & Wellness.
