The Effect That Low Vitamin D Has on the Brain

New study findings suggest that a diet low in vitamin D may cause brain damage. New evidence shows that vitamin D serves critical roles in organs and tissues including the brain, in addition to being vital in maintaining bone health. The recent study from University of Kentucky researchers shows that middle-aged rats developed free radical damage to the brain after being put on a diet low in vitamin D for several months. The study also demonstrated damage in various brain proteins, and a significant decrease in the rats’ cognitive performance in learning and memory tests. Low levels of vitamin D have previously been associated with Alzheimer's disease, and a vitamin D-deficient diet has also been linked to the development of certain cancers and heart disease. Vitamin D levels in humans are also often low, particularly in the elderly population, in areas where food intake is not always especially nutritious. The UK study authors recommend that physicians consult with patients to determine their vitamin D levels, and encourage individuals with low levels to eat foods rich in vitamin D, take vitamin D supplements, and/or get at least 10 minutes to 15 minutes of sun exposure each day to ensure that vitamin D levels are normal, and remain as such, in order to help protect the brain. “Determination of vitamin D levels is a simple blood test,” says Allan Butterfield, PhD, professor in the University of Kentucky department of chemistry, director of the Center of Membrane Sciences, faculty of Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, director of the Free Radical Biology in Cancer Core of the Markey Cancer Center, and lead study author. “However, knowing precisely what [constitutes] a ‘normal’ level is somewhat problematic,” he says. “Different people have different factors that could influence their ‘normal’ levels.” Nevertheless, he says, analysis of vitamin D levels would be indicated if the patient indicates to the primary care physician that he or she is experiencing difficulties in cognition, memory, bone density, or muscle pain and fatigue, says Butterfield. “Moreover,” he adds, “the physician could recommend to the patient to increase his or her dietary levels of vitamin D-rich foods, which may be beneficial. The study findings were originally published in Free Radical Biology and Medicine. —Mark McGraw Reference Keeney JT, Forster S, et al. Dietary vitamin D deficiency in rats from middle to old age leads to elevated tyrosine nitration and proteomics changes in levels of key proteins in brain: Implications for low vitamin D-dependent age-related cognitive decline. Free Radical Biology and Medicine. 2013.