Low levels of vitamin D are associated with low mood. In particular, as blood levels of the vitamin D metabolite 25-hydroxyvitamin D fall, there is an increased risk of low mood. Studies have investigated the association between vitamin D status and mood. In one study, this association was measured in community-dwelling European men. The results of the study showed that as vitamin D levels fell, there was a significant increase in the risk of depression. These results support other studies that have found associations between vitamin D levels and mood. It should be pointed out that an association does not prove cause and effect. There could be another factor that is the causative agent in this case. However, taken as a whole the literature does support the contention that vitamin D is required for correct brain function, and in this regard as levels drop, brain function is affected and mood can change. Therefore ensuring adequate vitamin D levels is an important part of mental health.
The best way to obtain vitamin D is through sunlight exposure to skin. If this is not possible,supplement of vitamin D should be consumed to maintain vitamin D status.
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