Comparison of Serum Vitamin D Levels in Depressed and Healthy Individuals at the Zahedan Psychiatric Clinic

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Health Promotion Research Center, Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran

2 Department of Nutrition, Pregnancy Health Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran

3 General Medicine, School of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran

4 Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran

5 Department of Psychiatric, School of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran

Abstract

Introduction: Recent research has highlighted the potential role of vitamin D in brain function and development, including its influence on cognitive function and mental health. However, evidence regarding the association between vitamin D levels and depression remains inconsistent. Objective: This study aimed to compare serum vitamin D levels between individuals with depression and healthy controls referred to the psychiatric clinic in Zahedan. Methods: A case-control study was conducted involving 54 individuals with depressive symptoms and 45 healthy controls. Serum vitamin D levels were measured using the ELISA immunoassay. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 21.0. Results: The mean serum vitamin D levels in the case and control groups were 24.2 ± 13.3 ng/ml and 30 ± 14.4 ng/ml, respectively (P = 0.04). No significant differences in demographic characteristics were observed between the two groups. Serum vitamin D levels were significantly lower in depressed patients compared to healthy controls (P = 0.04). The analysis revealed that 36 (66.7%) depressed patients and 19 (42.2%) controls had vitamin D deficiency, while 18 (33.3%) and 26 (57.8%) participants in the case and control groups had normal or higher serum vitamin D levels, respectively. Furthermore, the frequency of vitamin D insufficiency was significantly higher in the depressed group compared to controls (P = 0.01). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that vitamin D deficiency is more prevalent in individuals with depression, suggesting increased vulnerability in this population. Further diagnostic investigations and educational programs focusing on the prevention, detection, and treatment of vitamin D deficiency are warranted.

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References

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Journal of Nutrition,Fasting and Health
Volume 13, Issue 2
June 2025
Pages 109-115

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History

  • Receive Date: 07 October 2024
  • Accept Date: 20 November 2024

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