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Vitamin D and Glucose Metabolism

It is estimated that over 50% of the US population is clinically deficient in Vitamin D.  Clinically deficient is a Vitamin D value of less than 30 ng/mL. Optimal values, as determined by clinical research, recommends values greater than 50 ng/mL to prevent symptoms and disease.

Vitamin D is one of the most widely studied nutrients over the last decade . Having properties more like a hormone than a vitamin, Vitamin D has been found to have many health benefits.  Most are aware of its benefit in bone health, however research now shows Vitamin D as having strong roles, not only bone health, but metabolism, immune function and glucose balance as well.

A recent study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (Feb 2013) analyzed obese young adults whose elevated blood glucose levels put them at risk for developing type II diabetes and who also had a vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency. Participants took either a vitamin D supplement or a placebo daily for six months.  Results revealed participants who took Vitamin D supplements versus those who took a placebo, had lower blood levels of insulin and less insulin resistance.  The data encourages and supports supplementing with vitamin D when levels are either deficient or insufficient as one means to prevent the onset of type II diabetes and improve glucose metabolism.

Bottom Line: Check yourVitamin D level and make sure you are in optimal range: 60-80mg/mL.  If you fall short, talk to your healthcare provider about the correct supplement dose of Vitamin D3 for you.

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