A new study at University of Galway is exploring how higher levels of vitamin D in middle age could combat future dementia.
The research found that higher levels of vitamin D are associated with lower levels of specific proteins in the brain that are biomarkers for the disease.
This study, led by Professor Emer McGrath and Dr Martin Mulligan, involved nearly 800 people with an average age of 39 who didn't have dementia.
They had their vitamin D levels measured at the start of the study, and then had brain scans an average of 16 years later.
Researchers looked for specific tau and amyloid beta proteins which are biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease.
Those defined as having a high level of vitamin D were found to have lower levels of these proteins years later.
The takeaway is that increased vitamin D in mid-life could be an important protection against the development of Alzheimers.
But the team warns at this point, it's an association rather than proof, and further studies are needed.
