Vitamin D and Brain Function Although mainly known for its bone-strengthening abilities, recent research has demonstrated that Vitamin D may have a significant role in mental health as well. Scientists are finding evidence that Vitamin D regulates the enzyme that converts the amino acid tryptophan into serotonin, which is associated with mood regulation. An experiment found that test-subjects with restricted levels of tryptophan become moody and impulsive, suggesting a link between tryptophan, serotonin, and mood. A hypothesis explaining how Vitamin D fits into the equation is that low levels of Vitamin D cause our brains to produce abnormally high amounts of serotonin, which disrupt mood and cause the brain to develop abnormally. This explains why going outside on a bright sunny day improves our mood, since Vitamin D is made in the skin by the sun. Learn about more mental/developmental benefits of Vitamin D ow.ly/H87Np
Posted on: Sun, 11 Jan 2015 21:15:05 +0000