A recent study showed that low levels of vitamin D can lead to poor blood sugar control in those with
diabetes and increase the risk of metabolic syndrome.

Metabolic syndrome is a group of risk factors that may include: abdominal obesity, elevated blood pressure and insulin resistance. People with metabolic syndrome are at increased risk for coronary heart disease and diabetes.

This study reviewed the charts of 124 patients with type 2 diabetes at an outpatient endocrine facility. The researchers discovered that more than 90% of the patients had vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency. There were about 6% of the patients taking vitamin D supplements, but those with lower levels were more likely to have higher blood sugar levels.

"This finding supports an active role of vitamin D in the development
of type 2 diabetes," study co-author Dr. Esther Krug, an assistant
professor of medicine, said in a news release from the Endocrine
Society.

Many primary care doctors do not test for vitamin D levels in a routine physical. You should ask your doctor to do this test to see where your levels are so you can begin supplementation if necessary. 

The Vitamin D Council recommends that healthy adults take 2,000 IU of
vitamin D daily. More is required if you get little or no sun exposure.

How do you get your vitamin D?

Credits to:The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel

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