Vitamin D keeps brain ticking over in later life

A recent study into the effects of vitamin D level on brain function in the over 65s has shown that higher intakes result in clearer cognitive abilities. Indeed respondents with low levels of the vitamin had greater problems in memory and understanding.

Further research is needed in order to clarify the role of Vitamin D in the brain. We know that it is vital for maintaining bone health, absorbing calcium and phosphorus and assisting the immune system. The vitamin is obtained from sunlight and oily fish. There are, too, a range of fortified foods including cereals, milk and soya products, all especially important for over 60s and beyond as older people's skin is less able to absorb vitamin D from sunlight.

Providing vitamin D supplements could help prevent dementia in the over 60s and 70 plus. However as Rebecca Wood, chief executive of the Alzheimer's Research Trust points out: "Many foods that contain vitamin D, such as oily fish, eggs and breakfast cereals, are also good sources of vitamin B12, which, as previous studies have shown, can help protect the brain. Diet is known to influence dementia risk. The best way of reducing your risk of developing dementia is to maintain a balanced diet with regular exercise and frequent social interactions."

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