High-Dose Vitamin D Linked to Over 13% Boost in Cognitive Test Scores
Older adults with mild cognitive impairment and sleep issues who took at least 5,000 IU of vitamin D daily scored more than 13% higher on a cognitive assessment than those who did not.
Researchers examined 54 older adults experiencing both sleep problems and mild cognitive impairment, an early stage of dementia. Participants who reported taking at least 5,000 IU of vitamin D each day achieved more than a 13% higher score on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment compared with those who took no supplement, even after adjusting for other variables. No cognitive advantage was seen with lower daily doses.
The study observed comparable outcomes for vitamin D2, typically derived from plants or fungi, and vitamin D3, which the body produces from sunlight and animal sources. Senior author Victoria Pak highlighted the potential of vitamin D as a modifiable factor during a critical window of cognitive decline. The findings, appearing in Sleep Medicine, were supported by funding from the National Institute on Aging of the NIH.
Why it matters
Identifying a simple, affordable supplement that may slow early cognitive decline could help millions at risk for dementia.
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