Faculty Sponsor

Jana Stedman

College

Nursing

Department/Program

MSPA

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Summer 7-26-2023

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction

The objective of this paper is to analyze the effect of vitamin D supplementation in those individuals who have been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder or have depressive symptoms.

Methods

Different databases and literature were reviewed that examine the effects of vitamin D supplementation through randomized controlled trials, cross-sectional studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses to treat depression or improve symptoms that are associated with depression. 10 articles in total were examined including 3 systemic reviews, 2 cross sectional studies, 1 cohort study, 2 meta-analyses, and 2 randomized controlled trials. These were compared to other studies where individuals did not receive vitamin D supplementation. Individuals ranked their depressive symptoms using the 8-item Patient Health Questionnaire depression scale, the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire depression scale, and the Hamilton D-17 depression scoring systems.

Results

The studies found that if individuals have lower levels of vitamin D, they are more likely to be diagnosed with depression or show signs of depression.

Conclusions

There is a correlation between having lower levels of vitamin D and having clinical signs and symptoms of depression. However, studies found that supplementation of vitamin D displayed minor improvement of clinical depression symptoms or no improvement at all.

Keywords: vitamin D deficiency, vitamin D insufficiency, depression, depressive symptoms, vitamin D supplementation, pathophysiology, 25 hydroxyvitamin D

Biographical Information about Author(s)

Emily Luplow has a special interest in Emergency Medicine and plans on working in the setting following graduation. She is a student member of professional organizations such as the American Academy of Physician Assistants as well as the Valparaiso University Physician Assistant Student Society. Emily will be presenting on “Vitamin D Supplementation and its Effects on Depression” because she has a special interest in the influence of preventable factors on an individual’s mood.

Download

Share

COinS