More than 212 million Indians are currently living with diabetes, with majority of living with diabetes suffering from type 2, according to alarming figures from recent Lancet report. The chronic condition, which results in excessively high blood sugar levels, is linked to the shocking thousands of heart attacks and strokes happen every week across the country.
However, a UK recent research offers a glimmer of hope against this debilitating illness. The vitamin D was found to slash personal risk of diabetes by 15% in a study of individuals with ‘prediabetes’ – or elevated blood sugar levels.
The US research team, led by Tufts Medical Centre, revealed that it also ‘increased the likelihood of regression to normal glucose regulation by 30%’.
“The purpose was to evaluate whether administration of vitamin D decreases risk for diabetes among people with prediabetes,” authors wrote. “In adults with prediabetes, vitamin D was effective in decreasing risk for diabetes.”
Importantly, the scientists clarified that their study only applies to those with ‘prediabetes’, not the general population. Yet, they’re not alone in singing the praises of vitamin D.
Data from the NIH suggests that vitamin D plays a vital role in muscle movement and nerve communication throughout the body too. Other experts have even associated it with a reduced risk of various cancers and multiple sclerosis, although further research is needed to fully comprehend these links.
While our skin can generate vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, it can also be obtained through certain foods. Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and tuna are prime examples, while cheese and mushrooms are rich in this essential nutrient too.
Senior dietitian Victoria Taylor at the British Heart Foundation explains: “Even if you eat vitamin D-rich foods, it’s unlikely that you will get all the vitamin D you need from your food. It’s recommended that we have 10 micrograms of vitamin D each day, but the average intake in India from food is thought to be less than three micrograms. Most of our vitamin D is made through our skin when we are outside in daylight.
“From April to September in India, sunlight plus a healthy balanced diet will be enough to meet most people’s needs. From October to March, it’s recommended that we take a vitamin D supplement.” Despite its perks, it’s crucial to avoid consuming too much vitamin D as it can lead to a whole array of different health issues.
The NHS explains: “Taking too many vitamin D supplements over a long period of time can cause too much calcium to build up in the body (hypercalcaemia). This can weaken the bones and damage the kidneys and the heart. If you choose to take vitamin D supplements, 10 micrograms a day will be enough for most people.
“Do not take more than 100 micrograms (4,000 IU) of vitamin D a day as it could be harmful. This applies to adults, including pregnant and breastfeeding women and the elderly, and children aged 11 to 17 years.
“Children aged 1 to 10 years should not have more than 50 micrograms (2,000 IU) a day. Infants under 12 months should not have more than 25 micrograms (1,000 IU) a day. Some people have medical conditions that mean they may not be able to safely take as much. If in doubt, you should consult your doctor.”
Courtsey:- Lauren Haughey, The Mirror
