The Relation between Vitamin D Levels and Depression in Type 1 Diabetic Patients

Background and Aims: Recently, studies suggest vitamin D deficiency may be correlated with severity and frequency of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and depression. Prevalence of depression in diabetics is 2-3 times higher compared to non-diabetics. We aimed to assess vitamin D status in T1D patients and patients with depression, and its relation to diabetes control. Methods: This study was conducted in the summer of 2013, on 120 subjects, divided into 4 groups: 30 healthy controls, 30 patients with T1D, 30 with depression and 30 with both T1D and depression. MADRS scale was used for diagnosis of depression. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, FBS, 2hPG, and HbA1c were measured. Results: Vitamin D levels were found insufficient in the control group while being deficient in all patients (62.43+ 24.86 vs.23.37 + 18.14,16.35 + 12.58, 22.14 + 20.6 nmol/L respectively, p<0.001), but without significant difference between patient groups. Vitamin D was negatively correlated with FBS, 2hPG, HbA1c and MADRS score and positively correlated with weight and BMI. Depression, female gender and T1D were independent determinants for vitamin D level by multiple regression analysis. Conclusion: Vitamin D status should be assessed in diabetics and in depression. Severe depression associated with poor control.