Vitamin D is an essential vitamin necessary for maintaining proper function of bones, nerves and muscles. It also has antioxidant qualities and supports a healthy immune system. If you suffer from Parkinson's disease or PD, you may benefit from taking vitamin D supplements. Consult your doctor first.
Vitamin D Deficiency & PD
High vitamin D levels appear to protect against Parkinson's, according to a study in the July 2010 issue of Archives of Neurology. This study involved more than 3,000 participants who were disease free at the beginning of the study. During the 29-year follow-up period, people who developed Parkinson's were evaluated. The researchers found that people who had high blood levels of vitamin D had reduced risk to develop PD. A study discussed in 2003 in Acta Diabetologica showed that 41 percent of the subjects who experienced advanced stages of Parkinson's disease had a vitamin D deficiency.
Vitamin D, PD and Osteoporosis
Calcium can't be absorbed by the body when there are inadequate levels of vitamin D, the National Parkinson's Foundation says. Low blood levels of calcium and vitamin D may cause a variety of health conditions, including fractures and osteoporosis. Parkinson's may be considered a risk factor for osteoporosis, suggests a research team led by Dr. Abou Raya. The study, in the November 2009 issue of Age and Ageing, found that participants in the study suffering from PD had low vitamin D levels and had increased incidence of osteoporosis, falls and fractures compared with the control group.
Dosage
For adults, a daily dose of 400IU of vitamin D is usually recommended. This dosage may be increased by your doctor if you have vitamin D deficiency. To prevent osteoporosis, the National Institutes of Health recommends 800IU daily of vitamin D combined with 1200mg calcium.
Considerations
Consult a doctor to find out optimal dosage of vitamin D and other supplements that may help improve your symptoms. Vitamin D does not replace and should not be used to replace any conventional drugs you are taking.
References
- National Institutes of Health: Vitamin D
- Archives of Neurology; Serum Vitamin D and the Risk of Parkinson Disease; P.Kneckt et al; July, 2010
- Acta Diabetologica; Body Composition in Advanced-stage Parkinson's Disease; October, 2003
- Age and Ageing; Bone and Mineral Metabolism in Older Adults with Parkinson's Disease; November, 2009
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