Vitamin D deficiency affects nearly half of Argentina's population

Vitamin D deficiency is a significant health concern, affecting approximately 40% to 45% of the population in Argentina and between 40% and 50% globally. Biochemist Matías Nattero notes that while often called a vitamin, it functions more like a hormone, playing critical roles in bone health, calcium absorption, and immune system regulation.

Regarding cognitive health, a study published in 'Sleep Medicine' explored the link between vitamin D and cognition in adults with mild cognitive impairment and sleep disturbances. While some claims suggest a 13% improvement in cognition, researchers caution that this figure is derived from an observational study of 54 adults and does not establish causality or prove a reduction in dementia risk. The study noted that participants consuming at least 5,000 UI daily scored higher on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), but the MoCA is a brief test and not a global measure of cognitive capacity.

Most vitamin D is produced through UV exposure, which accounts for roughly 80% of the body's supply, while 10% to 20% is obtained through diet. Food sources include fatty fish like tuna, mackerel, and salmon, as well as egg yolks, avocado, and mushrooms.