The role of vitamin D for the prevention and treatment of depression

Abstract

Introduction The results of recent decades of research show an increase in the incidence of mental disorders, such as depression. The World Health Organization estimates that the disorder affects approximately 264 million people worldwide, and will become the most common health problem in the next 20 years. Many factors and mechanisms play a role in the pathophysiology of this disease, one of which may be vitamin D deficiency. Objective The aim of the study was to review the current literature analyzing the impact of vitamin D deficiency on the occurrence of depression symptoms and the possibility of using its supplementation as one of the methods of treatment. Review methods The systematic review of the research, published from 1 January 2015–31 January 2021, was carried out based on searching bibliographic databases, such as: PubMed and Elsevier. The following key words and their combinations were used: vitamin D, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, depression, mental disorders, and vitamin D supplementation. Results There is scientific evidence for a relationship between deficiency of 25 (OH) D in blood serum and an increased risk of depression, or its exacerbation in people of all ages. Researchers emphasize the important role of vitamin D3 supplementation to reduce the severity of the symptoms of this mental disorder, or to use it as a drug enhancing pharmacological treatment. Conclusion There is a need for further research, in particular randomized studies, which would more reliably explain the importance of vitamin D in the pathophysiology of depression and its clinical application in the treatment of this disease. This would bring about substantial benefits not only for an individual, but also for the general population, contributing to the improvement of the functioning of the public health sec tor.

Keywords

• depression
• mental disorders
• 25-hydroxyvitamin d
• witamin d