Supplementation might help patients with depression, seasonal mood disturbances

In the United States, >50% of psychiatric inpatients have vitamin D deficiency—<30 nmol/L (<12 ng/mL).1 A growing body of literature has found associations between vitamin D deficiency and psychiatric illnesses, particularly depression. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have demonstrated that vitamin D supplementation can benefit depression symptoms. In this article, we discuss the current literature on vitamin D and psychiatric illness, and provide practical information for clinicians on the use of vitamin D supplementation.

SOURCE:  vd-depression

Bottom Line Low levels of vitamin D are associated with depression, cognitive dysfunction, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Evidence also suggests a potential link between vitamin D deficiency and psychotic disorders. It is not clear whether vitamin D deficiency is a cause or effect of depression. Limited research suggests vitamin D supplementation might have a role in treating depression and SAD.