A recent study from Emory University indicates that older adults experiencing mild cognitive impairment and sleep disturbances may benefit from high daily doses of vitamin D. This nutrient is essential for both muscle and nerve function and also plays a role in sleep quality and patterns.
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Half of the individuals with moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease report sleep disturbances, highlighting a complex relationship between poor sleep and cognitive decline. Dr. Victoria Pak, the senior author of the study, noted that nearly half of those with mild cognitive impairment are affected by sleep issues, raising concerns about their risk of progressing to Alzheimer's disease.
The study aimed to explore the connection between cognitive function and vitamin D intake in individuals with mild cognitive impairment and sleep disturbances, a group particularly susceptible to cognitive decline.
The team analyzed 54 participants diagnosed or suspected to have mild cognitive impairment and sleep problems, utilizing the Montreal Cognitive Assessment for evaluation. Participants self-reported their use of vitamin D supplements through a questionnaire.
Findings revealed that those taking 5,000 international units (IU) or more of vitamin D daily had higher scores on cognitive tests compared to those not taking any supplements. The study also noted no significant difference in cognitive performance based on the type of vitamin D consumed, whether D2 (often from plant sources) or D3 (produced from sun exposure or animal products).
Dr. Pak emphasized that this period in older adults, marked by sleep disturbances and mild cognitive impairment, could be critical for intervention. Identifying modifiable factors like vitamin D intake may become increasingly vital as the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease rises.
This research is set to be published in the October 2026 issue of the journal Sleep Medicine.