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Vitamin D and Dementia

vitamin d and dementia

Vitamin D and dementia share a fascinating relationship that's particularly relevant for us Canadians. Lower vitamin D levels often correlate with cognitive decline, making it critical for maintaining adequate amounts of this essential nutrient.

While vitamin D isn't a cure for dementia, our investigation demonstrated that it plays a vital role in supporting brain tissue health and cognitive function.

At Vitamart, we understand the importance of quality supplements to aid people with dementia so you can choose the right format for your overall well being.

In this blog post, we'll explore how vitamin D may influence dementia risk, examine the connection between vitamin D deficiency and cognitive decline, and discuss recommended daily intake.

What this article covers:

Do Vitamin D Supplements Reduce Your Risk of Dementia?

Vitamin D supplementation may help reduce the risk of dementia by affecting key brain mechanisms involved in the disease.

Our research indicates that taking a vitamin D supplement consistently can lower the buildup of amyloid beta and tau proteins, which are key contributors to developing Alzheimer's disease.

This may slow the onset of cognitive decline by protecting brain tissue against nerve damage and dysfunction, particularly when supplementation starts before symptoms emerge​.

dementia and vitamin d

Additionally, one study with over 12,000 participants undertaken by the University of Calgary and the University of Exeter found that individuals taking vitamin D supplements were 40% less likely to develop dementia over a period 10 years.

They concluded that these benefits were more pronounced in women and groups with normal cognitive function overall.

In this context, achieving adequate vitamin D levels with the best vitamin D supplements may bolster various cognitive functions, including memory and clear thinking, in people with dementia.

While vitamin D isn't a cure, conserving adequate quantities is pivotal for brain wellness and may potentially delay or minimise dementia risk over time.

Drawing from our experience, we've learned that vitamin D and hormones are intricately connected, affecting various bodily functions, including brain health.

When your vitamin D levels are low, it can impact the brain's ability to function optimally, potentially contributing to cognitive difficulties and dementia in the future.

While low vitamin D amounts don't directly cause dementia, maintaining adequate quantities supports your brain wellness and may aid with cognitive function in those with dementia.

Understanding this connection is crucial for Canadians, especially during our long winters when natural vitamin D production is limited.

vitamin d and dementia

According to a study done by the Women's Health Initiative, they found that a daily dose of 400 IU of vitamin D was insufficient for increasing and preserving optimal levels in people with dementia.

As such, the University of Calgary proposes an intake of 600-800 IU of vitamin D a day. This is considered safe for most adults between the ages of 50 and 70, even those with dementia.

We suggest a vitamin D3 and K2 supplement in this regard, which can be taken safely and regularly to promote brain health. Keep in mind that supplementation should always be guided by your doctor to avoid the risk of vitamin D toxicity​.

The exception to the recommended vitamin D dietary intake for adults is when some medical practitioners occasionally administer higher amounts of cholecalciferol capsules or drops.

This can take the form of dosages between 4,000 IU-7,500 IU, with strict monitoring applied, in adults older than 70 with severe vitamin D deficiencies or other serious medical conditions. This also includes individuals with osteoporosis at risk of sustaining falls to support overall bone and neural health.

It's essential to first consult with a healthcare provider to determine the right quantity to utilise for your specific circumstances, especially for people with dementia.

Moreover, we also advise regular assessment of vitamin D levels using a 25-hydroxyvitamin D test to ensure the correct dosage for each person.

vitamin d3 and k2

What Are the Best Vitamin D Supplements for People with Dementia?

When it comes to choosing the right supplement format, understanding the difference between vitamin D softgels vs tablets is key.

Our analysis of this product revealed that vitamin D softgels often provide better absorption in contrast with traditional tablets due to their vitamin D fat soluble status.

This means the nutrient typically contains a fatty base using either olive oil, organic oil, or MCT oil, which can be stored in the body's fatty tissues for extended periods. This allows your system to utilise vitamin D whenever necessary.

If you have a loved one with dementia, consider factors such as ease of swallowing, absorption rate, and additional ingredients when selecting an appropriate supplement.

This is where administering vitamin D drops for adults or vitamin D sprays might also be more suitable ahead of capsules or softgels to aid with digestion or absorption difficulties.

Additionally, we recommend selecting products that are third-party tested and manufactured in Canada to ensure the highest quality and safety standards.

Conclusion

In this blog post, we discovered that vitamin D and dementia share an important relationship. While vitamin D isn't a cure for dementia, maintaining healthy levels through appropriate supplementation can support cognitive health and overall wellbeing.

Ready to take care of your vitamin D needs with a trusted brand?

Visit us at Vitamart for our selection of premium, Canadian-approved vitamin D supplements. We're here to help you make the best choices for your lifelong wellness journey!

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