Want to stay smart as you age? Here’s one way to prevent it: Have more vitamin D.
A new study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that a higher-than-average consumption of vitamin D in the diets of middle-age rats helped them retain more of their memory–allowing them to complete tasks better.
The study was led by researchers from the University of Kentucky.
“This process is like restocking shelves in grocery stores,” says Nada Porter, co-author of the study and a biomedical pharmacologist at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. “The improvements in memory were associated with a level of a vitamin D metabolite that is about 50% higher than the one recommended by the Institute of Medicine to maintain healthy bones, but in line with what other experts recommend.”
The findings were initially made when researchers put rats on a series of six month diets where the level of vitamin D they received varied. After each diet period, their cognitive skills were tested by having them complete a water maze, which was challenging for most rats.
But how fast they completed this maze changed based on how much vitamin D they received–or in this case, too much. For those who received double the recommended amount, they completed the maze the fastest–and appeared to have a healthier brain despite their age. Those who consumed a diet that was low in vitamin D had a substantially harder time completing this task, however.
Though the effects haven’t been demonstrated in humans, Porter is positive this study shows promise.
“Increasing evidence suggests that vitamin D may play a role in maintaining cognitive function and that vitamin D deficiency may accelerate age-related cognitive decline,” says Porter. “Our studies demonstrate a causal relationship between vitamin D status and cognitive function, and they suggest that vitamin D-mediated changes in hippocampal gene expression may improve the likelihood of successful brain aging.”
What These Results Mean For You
A smarter brain–just by having more vitamin D? It’s true, according to the latest findings by the University of Kentucky. Doubling the recommended allownace of vitamin D was determined to be the optimal level, so if you wnat to match thsi amount, you’re best off having at least 600 international units (IU) per day–preferably from a vitamin D fortified diet. As for what are the best sources, fortified foods such as cereal are your best bet; it also wouldn’t hurt to get in some extra sunshine to boost your intake.
Researchers empahsize that consumers should first consult their doctor before makign any radical changes to their diet, however.
“Many factors incluence vitamin D levels, and it’s best for individuals to consult with their doctors before undertaking a specific vitamin D regimen,” says Porter. “There are few side effects to incresed vitamin D intake, particularly in the D3 form.”
Readers: Is vitamin D an essential part of your diet?
Sources:
Vitamin D Could Reduce Age-Related Memory Decline – BaltimoreSun.com
Study: High Vitamin D Intake Slows Memory Decline Associated With Aging – PNAS.org
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