Vitamin D deficiency ‘can contribute to depression’

A new study has revealed that vitamin D deficiencies may be linked to depression, in addition to its documented physical health impact.

Carried out by the University of Georgia, the University of Pittsburgh and the Queensland University of Technology, the research found an association between a lack of sunlight and the onset of seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

The team conducted a review of more than 100 leading articles, observing that there is a lag of about eight weeks between the peak in intensity of ultraviolet (UV) radiation and the onset of SAD, correlating with the time it takes for UV rays to be processed by the body into vitamin D.

Vitamin D is also involved in the synthesis of serotonin and dopamine within the brain – both chemicals linked to depression.

Michael Kimlin, from Queensland University of Technology's school of public health and social work, said: "This research is of international importance because no matter where you live, low levels of vitamin D can be a health concern."

Humans receive most of their vitamin D intake from the sun, with the nutrient playing a key role in regulating the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body. A lack of vitamin D can lead to bone disorders such as rickets.