Futurity · Health

Vitamin D Supplementation Linked to Better Cognition in High-Risk Adults

A recent study suggests that adults at elevated risk for dementia who take higher doses of vitamin D supplements may experience improved cognitive function.

The research, involving 54 adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and sleep disturbances, found that those consuming at least 5,000 IU of vitamin D daily scored over 13% higher on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) compared to non-supplementers. Lower daily doses of vitamin D did not show a similar association with higher cognitive scores.

MCI is considered an intermediate stage between normal cognitive aging and dementia. The study highlights that this stage may represent a critical window for interventions aimed at supporting brain health, especially as Alzheimer's rates rise.

The form of vitamin D supplement (D2 or D3) did not affect cognitive performance in the study. Vitamin D is crucial for muscle and nerve function, and it also influences sleep quality, which is often disturbed in individuals with Alzheimer's disease.

This preliminary study is the first to examine the connection between vitamin D supplement intake and cognitive function in individuals experiencing both MCI and sleep disturbances. The research was funded by the National Institute on Aging.

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