Vitamin D intake linked to improved cognitive function in elderly

A study published in the journal ‘Sleep Medicine’ suggests a link between high daily vitamin D intake and improved cognitive function in older adults experiencing mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and sleep disturbances.

Researchers from Emory University analyzed 54 adults, with an average age of approximately 67. Participants who reported consuming 5,000 international units (IU) or more of vitamin D daily scored approximately 13% higher on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) compared to those who did not take supplements. This difference represented a gap of about four points on the test.

Experts caution that these findings should be interpreted with care. The study was small and observational, meaning it cannot definitively prove that vitamin D directly causes improved memory or cognitive abilities. Furthermore, the 5,000 IU dose is not a universal recommendation; for most adults, 4,000 IU is considered the maximum tolerable upper limit from food and supplements combined. Higher doses should only be used under medical supervision.