The Vitamin Shoppe

Can Vitamin D Deflect Diabetes?

Can Vitamin D Deflect Diabetes?: Main Image
Keeping blood vitamin D levels in the normal range--between 30 and 74 ng/mL--may help reduce your risk
Vitamin D is the only vitamin our bodies can make--when our skin is exposed to sunlight of sufficient strength--and it plays many roles in bodily functions, from hormone to cell growth regulator. Now health experts have uncovered evidence of another important task vitamin D may perform: diabetes prevention.

Examining D, tracking diabetes


After five years, the study authors noted that:

  • 26 of the study participants were newly diagnosed with diabetes.
  • Study participant with a vitamin D level considered necessary for optimal health by many health experts--at least 30 nanograms per milliliter (ng/ml)--did not develop diabetes.

Dodging diabetes



  • Supplement wisely. If your vitamin D levels are below 30 ng/ml--the low end of normal--ask your healthcare provider how much vitamin D you should take and when to get blood levels retested, to make sure the supplements are having the intended effect.
  • Go low. If you don't want, or don't have a way, to check your vitamin D levels, but are concerned you may not be getting enough D, a low-dose supplement can be your insurance policy; according the health experts, a 600 to 1,200 IU daily vitamin D supplement is safe for nearly everyone.
  • Move more. Exercise reduces type 2 diabetes risk, and if you are overweight, even if you don't lose a single pound, the simple act of moving your body will improve blood glucose control. A 30-minute daily walk is enough to provide health benefits.

