More research on vitamin D and diabetes
It has been observed that low levels of vitamin D and calcium are associated with higher risk of type 2 diabetes.
Now, researchers in Boston report an explanation underlying the relationship.
First, the details.
- 92 adults at high risk of diabetes were randomly assigned to a treatment group for 16 weeks.
- Cholecalciferol (a form of vitamin D, also called vitamin D3) 2000 IU once daily
- Calcium carbonate 400 mg twice daily
- Placebo
- Pancreatic beta cell ability to secrete insulin was measured using a glucose-tolerance test.
- Insulin response, insulin sensitivity, and measures of changes in blood levels of glucose were also measured.
- Neither the patients nor researchers knew the treatment given — double blind.
The bottom line?
- Participants had an A1c of 5.9%.
- A1c test is used as a standard tool to determine blood sugar control for patients with diabetes.
- Levels at or higher than 6.5% are diagnostic for diabetes.
- Higher levels of vitamin D were associated with significantly improved insulin secretion.
- A1c was not changed in either group.
- There was no significant difference in any outcomes with calcium compared with no calcium.
The bottom line?
The value of this study is that it shows a logical progression from observation to analytical testing of a hypothesis. It has limited application to treatment at this time.
Accordingly, the authors concluded, “In adults at risk of type 2 diabetes, short-term supplementation with cholecalciferol improved beta cell function.”
7/19/11 20:42 JR