Study connects low vitamin D at birth to ADHD, autism, schizophrenia

A recent study conducted by researchers at The University of Queensland reveals a troubling link between low vitamin D levels in newborns and an increased risk of developing mental health disorders such as ADHD, autism, and schizophrenia. The research analyzed data from 71,793 individuals, many of whom were diagnosed with various mental health conditions during childhood or early adulthood, making it the largest study of its kind to date.

Led by Professor John McGrath from UQ’s Queensland Brain Institute, the study partnered with Aarhus University and the State Serum Institute in Denmark. The team examined six specific mental health conditions: major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and anorexia. The findings indicate that babies born with lower levels of vitamin D face a higher likelihood of developing schizophrenia, ADHD, and autism later in life.

Previous research had hinted at a connection between vitamin D deficiency and both schizophrenia and autism. However, this recent study expanded the scope by including additional mental health conditions and utilizing two vitamin D-related markers alongside genetic data for a more thorough analysis.

Professor McGrath emphasized the importance of vitamin D for brain development in infants, noting that many pregnant women worldwide experience low vitamin D levels. He advocates for vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy and for newborns, similar to how folate supplements are used to prevent neural tube defects. “Ensuring adequate vitamin D levels could help reduce the risk of several mental health issues,” he stated.

The research utilized data from the iPSYCH study, initiated in Denmark in 2012 to explore mental health challenges. Vitamin D is primarily obtained from sunlight but can also be sourced from certain foods and supplements.

The findings were published in The Lancet Psychiatry. The study received funding from the Danish National Research Foundation, the Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, and The University of Queensland.