The Role of Vitamin D in Mitigating Nutritional Risk Factors for Suicide

Association between Vitamin D Deficiency and Suicide

Globally, suicide accounts for approximately 800,000 deaths annually, making it a significant public health concern. Recent studies suggest that low sunshine exposure and vitamin D deficiency may be a major factor in suicide. A meta-analysis of 20 studies showed a significant association between latitude and suicide, with a higher prevalence of suicide in regions with lower sunshine exposure. Additionally, many studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency is associated with a higher risk of suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and completed suicide. People who attempted suicide had significantly lower vitamin D levels than healthy controls, and a genetic predisposition to lower vitamin D levels was associated with a higher risk of suicide attempts.

Vitamin D Supplementation Reduces Suicide Risk

A recent study of more than 1 million US veterans investigated the association between prescribed supplementation of vitamin D and suicide attempts or intentional self-harm. The results showed that vitamin D supplementation cut the risk of a suicide attempt or intentional self-harm almost in half. Subgroup analyses also showed that those who had the lowest vitamin D levels pre-supplementation had the strongest risk reduction with regard to suicide attempts or self-harm.

Importance of Nutrient Deficiencies in Depression and Suicidality

Our brain requires sufficient sunshine and vitamin D to function properly. With a deficiency of vitamin D and other nutrients, synthesis of neurotransmitters no longer functions correctly, inflammatory processes increase, and the brain no longer has the energy to adequately deal with the challenges in life, leading to depression. An insufficiency of vitamin D affects 75% of the global adult population, and those who attempt suicide are more likely to have a deficiency of vitamin D. Additionally, a deficiency of magnesium is another important cause of depression, and treatment with magnesium has shown to be effective. Vitamin K2 is also likely effective for depression.

The Importance of Nutritional Therapy in Suicidality

While antidepressants and psychotherapy may be helpful, they do not correct nutrient deficiencies, which is why many patients do not respond to these therapies. Nutritional therapy/Orthomolecular medicine saves lives. The protocol comprising vitamins D and K2, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids is helpful as a basis for excellent physical and mental health. If everyone got adequate amounts of these nutrients, we would likely see fewer cases of suicides and depression.

Conclusion

Suicide is a significant public health concern globally, and recent studies suggest that low sunshine exposure and vitamin D deficiency may be a major factor in suicide. Vitamin D supplementation has been shown to reduce the risk of suicide attempts or intentional self-harm. Nutrient deficiencies, including vitamin D and magnesium, are important causes of depression and suicidality. Nutritional therapy/Orthomolecular medicine can save lives by correcting nutrient deficiencies.