New research suggests that higher vitamin D supplement intake may link to better cognitive function in adults who face an elevated risk of dementia. Currently, millions of people live with Alzheimer's dementia, and this number continues to grow.
A recent study published in Sleep Medicine examined fifty-four adults who had sleep disturbances and mild cognitive impairments. The research compared participants taking at least five thousand international units of vitamin D daily with those who did not take this amount. The findings showed that participants taking this higher dose scored more than thirteen percent higher on a widely used cognitive assessment test. Interestingly, lower daily doses did not show the same positive association with cognitive scores.
The study also found that the specific form of vitamin D did not change the results. Participants achieved similar outcomes whether they used vitamin D2 from plants or vitamin D3 from animal sources. Researchers point out that mild cognitive impairment is an intermediate stage between normal aging and dementia. During this critical window, opportunities to support brain health are still available.
Difficult words
- dementia — A medical condition that affects memory and thinking abilities.
- cognitive — Related to thinking, learning, and remembering.
- participant — A person who takes part in a study or research.participants
- assessment — A test or evaluation to measure something.
- intermediate — Located in the middle between two different stages.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why do you think it is important to find ways to support brain health during the mild cognitive impairment stage?
- In what ways can people make sure they get enough vitamins in their daily lives?
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