Everybody know that Vitamin D plays an important role in
maintaining bone health, but a new study claims that deficiency of this vitamin
may cause damage to the brain and other organs.
The results, published in Free Radical Biology and Medicine,
showed that when middle-aged rats were fed a diet low in vitamin D for
several months, they developed free radical damage to the brain. They also
performed less well in cognitive functioning tests for learning and memory.
The researchers say that several brain proteins were found to have
significantly higher levels and that this contributes to significant
nitrosative stress in the brain, possibly leading to cognitive decline.
The researchers claim that vitamin D deficiency is increasing and
its effects on an aging brain should not be underestimated.
Catch some rays
Often called the "sunshine vitamin," dietary sources of
vitamin D are limited, and the study notes that when times are hard, individual
food intake is not always the most nutritious.
The result of this is low levels of the vitamin, particularly among
the elderly population. Coupled with the widespread use of sunscreens and
popularity of wearing of long-sleeved clothing in the sunshine, levels of
vitamin D are declining.
Low levels of vitamin D have previously been linked to Alzheimer's
disease, the development of certain cancers and heart disease.
Everyone should allow at least 10-15 minute’s sunshine every day to
ensure that vitamin D levels are adequate.
Also taking supplements and eating more foods containing the
vitamin, including oily fish, eggs and fortified milk.
Health News Updated by Suryadeep Hospital Gurgaon. Source:- 4 Dec.2013 Medical News Today
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