Are you at risk for diabetes?  According to the World Health Organization (WHO), diabetes affects at least 220 million people worldwide.  Unfortunately, complications from diabetes kill 3.4 million people each year.  The number of deaths are expected to double by the year 2030.  Would you like to reduce your risk of diabetes?

A brand new study conducted by Tufts Medical Center and Harvard, indicates that taking a daily vitamin D3 supplement may lower your risk of pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes.  The study found that participants taking 2000 IU of vitamin D3 every day for 16 weeks, had a 26% improvement in beta-cell functions within the pancreas.  However, the group not taking vitamin D3, suffered a 14% decline in pancreas function during the same period.

This finding is very important, because low levels of beta-cell function in the pancreas is a predictor of diabetes risk.

Harry Rice, PhD, with the United Natural Products Alliance (UNPA), found benefit in this study and stated:

“Given the number of health benefits associated with vitamin D, coupled with evidence that certain segments of the population are vitamin D deficient, those not supplementing  their diet with vitamin D may want to rethink that decision.”

The American Diabetes Association (ADA),  has estimated the direct costs of diabetes in the U.S. exceed $174 billion a year.  This figure includes $116 billion spent on diabetes related medication each year.  Also, the numbers of Americans with pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes, continues to rise every year.

You can find a great summary of the study, at the Nutraingredients-usa.com site link provided here.

The Bottom Line:   If you haven’t discussed taking vitamin D supplements with your doctor, don’t wait any longer.  In addition to vitamin D deficiency linked to such health problems as osteoporosis, cancer, and cardiovascular disease, diabetes appears to be a new target.  How much more do you have to read about vitamin D, to understand its potential benefits for your health?

Have you taken vitamin D today?

It’s your life, live well.