Alzheimer's disease is a form of mental illness that affects memory, thinking and behavior. Family history, head injury and old age increase the risk of this condition, which, according to Alzheimer's Association, affects 15 million Americans. There is no cure for the disease, although certain medication may slow its progression. Supplements such as vitamin D may also help manage Alzheimer's disease. It is important, however, to consult a doctor before using them to avoid the possible complications and side effects.
About Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin found in foods such as fortified dairy, cereals, eggs and fish oils. It plays an important role in the formation and maintenance of bones. It also regulates cell growth and immune function. The National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements recommends 400 to 800 IU of the vitamin, depending on the age and overall health of health of the individual. Along with diet, the body can also produce significant amounts of vitamin D when exposed to sunlight for 10 to 15 minutes, three times a week. Your doctor may also recommend vitamin D supplements to treat a variety of conditions such as osteoporosis, cancer and diabetes.
Link Between Vitamin D and Alzheimer's Disease
Individuals with sufficient amounts of vitamin D in their blood scored better in cognitive tests when compared to those with reduce levels of the vitamin, according to a study published in the July 2008 issue of the journal "Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders." Another study published in the January 2011 issue of the "Journal of Alzheimer's Disease" reveals that the administration of vitamin D may protect the nerve cells from toxicity and death induced by proteins known as amyloid beta, which are the main components of the plaques found in the brains of Alzheimer's patients. The book "Principles of Orthomolecularism" by R. Hemat also states that Alzheimer's patients have the lower than normal levels of vitamin D and may benefit by eating foods that are a good source of the vitamin.
Side Effects
Vitamin D supplements are generally safe to use, although increased amounts of the vitamin may lead to increased calcium levels in the body. This can cause confusion, disorientation, kidney damage, nausea, vomiting and poor appetite. The supplements may also interfere with certain blood pressure and corticosteroid medications.
Precautions
Talk to a doctor before using vitamin D supplements to determine if they are right for you. You doctor may also suggest the appropriate dose depending on your age, pre-existing conditions and other medications you might be taking.
References
- Alzheimer's Association: Alzheimer's Facts and Figures
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin D
- "Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders"; Higher Serum Vitamin D3 Levels Are Associated with Better Cognitive Test Performance in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease; C. Oudshoorn, et al.; July 2008
- "Journal of Alzheimer's Disease"; A Novel Perspective for Alzheimer's Disease: Vitamin D Receptor Suppression by Amyloid-β and Preventing the Amyloid-β Induced Alterations by Vitamin D in Cortical Neurons; Erdinç Dursun, et al.; January 2011
- "Principles of Orthomolecularism"; R Hemat; 2003
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