The Briefing
Justin Bieber speaks on Diddy + Vitamin D linked to ADHD & schizophrenia
May 16, 2025
Professor John McGrath joins to discuss his groundbreaking research linking vitamin D deficiency to mental health disorders like ADHD and schizophrenia. He highlights that one in five Australians lacks this essential vitamin, with men facing a higher risk. The conversation uncovers the significant impact of vitamin D on brain development, especially in pregnant women, and emphasizes the importance of testing and supplementation for better mental health outcomes. Dive into how geographical factors influence mental health and practical steps to improve vitamin D levels.
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Quick takeaways
- Research links vitamin D deficiency to mental health disorders like ADHD and schizophrenia, highlighting its crucial role in brain development.
- Improving vitamin D levels through sunlight exposure or supplements could significantly reduce the prevalence of certain mental health conditions in populations at risk.
Deep dives
Link Between Vitamin D Deficiency and Mental Health Disorders
Research indicates a significant association between vitamin D deficiency and various mental health disorders, including schizophrenia, ADHD, and autism. The study highlights that low levels of vitamin D during pregnancy may increase the risk of these conditions in the unborn child. This evidence builds upon previous epidemiological and animal studies, suggesting that vitamin D plays a crucial role in brain development. The findings propose that improving vitamin D levels could potentially prevent around 19% of schizophrenia cases and 9% of ADHD cases.
