2023-09-26 14:00:00
Title: Vitamin D Supplements May Slow Progression of Dementia, Study Finds
By Natalie Hull-Deichsel | September 26, 2023, 2:00 p.m
Researchers from the Hotchkiss Brain Institute at the University of Calgary and the University of Exeter in Great Britain have made a significant discovery regarding the effect of vitamin D supplements on dementia patients. According to their findings, vitamin D appears to have a positive influence on the progression of the disease.
The study, which involved more than 12,000 participants, aimed to examine the connection between vitamin D intake and dementia. The researchers found that individuals who reported taking vitamin D supplements may have a lower risk of experiencing rapid dementia progression.
Age, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle factors such as obesity, alcohol consumption, smoking, diabetes, and untreated high blood pressure are known to increase the risk of developing dementia. However, the study’s leader, Dr. Zahinoor Ismail, emphasizes the potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation in managing the disease.
“We know that vitamin D has some effects in the brain that could have an impact on the progression of dementia. Our results provide important insights for patient groups that could be targeted in future studies of vitamin D supplementation,” said Dr. Ismail, a professor at the Cumming School of Medicine and the University of Exeter.
Interestingly, the study also revealed that the impact of vitamin D supplements was more significant in women with dementia compared to men. While the hormone showed promise in all groups, its effect was particularly notable for female participants.
Vitamin D plays essential roles in bone metabolism by facilitating the absorption of calcium and phosphate into the bones. Additionally, it is involved in protein formation and gene regulation, potentially influencing the development of chronic diseases and inflammation.
However, Dr. Ismail highlights the need for further clinical trials to confirm whether vitamin D supplements can genuinely prevent or delay the onset of dementia.
In conclusion, this latest research suggests that vitamin D supplementation may have a protective effect against dementia. While the findings indicate potential benefits, it is important to consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice and treatment options.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information on the relationship between vitamin D and dementia and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment purposes. It is not a substitute for medical consultation, and individual medical questions cannot be answered by our editorial team.]
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