01/21/2019 / By Zoey Sky
Vitamin D is often associated with calcium and bone growth, but according to a study, a vitamin D deficiency may also be linked to depressive symptoms in urban Malaysian women.
The study, which was published in the journal Public Health Nutrition, was conducted by scientists from the Julius Centre University of Malaya (JCUM).
Based on the study findings, over 70 percent of the urban Malaysian women surveyed were vitamin D deficient. The women also reported that they perceive themselves as depressed.
In humans, the main source of vitamin D is through synthesis by the skin that is exposed to ultra-violet ray from sunlight. Researchers posit that women of Malay and Indian ethnicity were more prone to being vitamin D deficient, probably because of “darker skin pigmentation, clothing styles constrained by religion, and aesthetic preference for fairer skin.” (Related: The most important vitamins for beating depression.)
Listed below are some of the signs of vitamin D deficiency:
In Western studies, results have determined a connection between vitamin D deficiency and depressive symptoms. To date, no similar studies have been conducted in tropical countries with abundant sunshine, such as Malaysia.
Earlier local studies suggest that more Malaysian women were vitamin D deficient, and the results of this study corroborate the previous findings. This study is also the first of its kind to identify a link between vitamin D deficiency and depressive symptoms in Malaysia.
The research team advised that vitamin D deficiencies can be resolved through the following suggestions for public health authorities:
Dr. Moy Foong Ming, the study’s lead author, considers the results of the study alarming. Dr. Ming added that the study findings highlight the need to immediately resolve the situation, especially since these women could be at risk of postmenopausal osteoporosis as they grow older. Vitamin D is also associated with a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.
If you want to keep your teeth and bones healthy and lower your risk of developing depression, consume more of the vitamin D-rich foods listed below:
If you already have depression, consider undergoing psychotherapy to manage your condition. For depression related to a vitamin D deficiency, increase your vitamin D intake to address your symptoms. Always consult a healthcare professional before you take supplements.
You can also try to manage your depression by trying out some of the lifestyle changes listed below:
Learn more about the effects of vitamin D to sleep and overall health by visiting VitaminD.news.
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Tagged Under: depression, mental health, natural cures, natural health, natural remedies, nutrition, Public Health, stress, vitamin D, women's health