September 28, 2015 | Categories for this post are: Volume 6
Vitamin D Deficiency – A finding seen in many patients with Parkinson’s disease
… Patients with Parkinson’s disease often have how levels of vitamin D. One of the research studies showed that majority of Parkinson’s disease patients had insufficient levels of vitamin D in their bodies. However, none of the research studies have established whether the vitamin D deficiency is a cause or effect of the disease.
Vitamin D3 is the active form of vitamin D, produced by the skin from sunlight exposure. The body uses it to help get calcium into the bones. Therefore, sufficient levels of vitamin D in the body may improve physical strength and balance, particularly in elderly people. Patients with Parkinson’s generally have lower bone mineral density which increases the risk of fractures if they fall.
Dr. Awad Al-Shahrani, Consultant Department of Endocrinology, Division of Internal Medicine, King Abdulaziz Medical City, National Guards Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
