“D”feat Depression

A number of recent studies suggest that Vitamin D exerts various health effects, with the merging data suggesting a link between vitamin D status and depression. Jane Maddock, from the University College London (United Kingdom), and colleagues analyzed data from 7,401 participants in the 1958 British birth cohort. Questionnaires elucidated behaviors at 45 years, and standardized scales assessed for depression, anxiety, panic, and phobia. The team found that at age 45, higher levels of vitamin D associated with lower risks of depression and panic. As well, age 50, the results indicated a non-linear association between vitamin D and depression, with lower risk for people with vitamin D levels between 50 and 85 nmol/L. The study authors conclude that: “This study provides support for an association of low [Vitamin D] concentrations with current and subsequent risk of depression in mid-adulthood.”