This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Statements about dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary — consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer
Across 41 randomized trials involving 53,235 adults, vitamin D supplementation reduced depressive symptom scores on...
Across 41 randomized trials involving 53,235 adults, vitamin D supplementation reduced depressive symptom scores on average compared with placebo (Hedges' g -0.317; 95% CI -0.405 to -0.230). Results varied substantially across studies, and the review rated the certainty of evidence as very low.
| Study | Participants | Finding | Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
The effect of vitamin D supplementation on depressive symptoms in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials Mikola T, Marx W, Lane MM, et al. — Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition (2023) | 53,235 | A small pooled reduction in depressive symptoms, with high heterogeneity (I² 88.16%) and very low GRADE certainty. First published online July 11, 2022; assigned to the 2023 journal issue. | Low |
Use these findings to inform a discussion about vitamin D alongside established depression care. Supplement decisions should reflect individual nutritional and clinical needs; a pooled research estimate is not a prescription or a reason to change existing treatment.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 41 randomized trials involving 53,235 adults, examining vitamin D supplementation and depressive symptoms.
The 41-trial review found lower depressive symptom scores on average with vitamin D than with placebo. The result suggests a possible benefit, while the substantial variation between studies and very low certainty mean that individual response remains uncertain.
The review included varied doses and treatment durations. Choose supplementation with a clinician according to the reason for treatment and your clinical circumstances, rather than treating this pooled analysis as a fixed dosing schedule.
No. The review does not establish vitamin D as a replacement for depression treatment. Discuss any supplement with the clinician managing your care and keep established treatment in place unless that clinician advises a change.
