Dr. Rath Research Institute

Lower levels of vitamin D circulating in the bloodstream are tied to a higher risk of developing diabetes in a new study of Australian adults.

Comments: In addition to its uses in many other chronic diseases, deficiency of the “Sunshine Vitamin” is also a possible cause of type 2 diabetes. Currently, 27 million Americans suffer from type 2 diabetes, and 67 million more are predicted to be pre-diabetic. This is sometimes referred to as a “time bomb,” because experts estimate that by 2020 more than 50 percent of Americans could have diabetes and the related health care costs may exceed $3.35 trillion. It is well known that diabetes can lead to variety of life threatening and debilitating complications including heart disease, kidney and nerve damage, blindness and leg amputations.

Yet, with such astonishing statistics and the lack of significant pharmaceutical cure for diabetes, it is unfortunate that the proven benefits of nutrients do not receive much attention. The pharmaceutical industry has not only failed to provide a successful cure for diabetes, other drugs they have developed like statins and antipsychotics further increase the chances of developing diabetes.

Vitamin D is known to regulate blood sugar levels by increasing insulin release from the pancreatic cells. Combining vitamin D with calcium also improves insulin sensitivity of other cells for better control of blood sugar. In addition, vitamin D is proven to reduce inflammation, which is directly associated with type 2 diabetes. Moreover, separate studies have shown that other nutrients like magnesium, selenium and antioxidants have important actions in maintaining normal blood sugar levels. Also, some studies show that vitamins such as folic acid may reverse the blood vessel changes associated with diabetes. And Vitamin B12 has been found to be more effective than drugs to treat diabetic neuropathy.

Dr. Rath's research has proven that like many other diseases type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease caused by long-term nutrient deficiency and it can thereby be prevented and controlled in its early stages. Essential nutrients such as vitamin C, the B complex vitamins, chromium, inositol, and choline are also important to support healthy glucose metabolism. When these nutrients are taken in synergistic proportions, they are more effective then when used alone. Please read more about Dr. Rath's research on diabetes and nutrient synergy at www.drrathresearch.org

Source: http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/04/27/us-vitamind-diabetes-idUSTRE73Q6VH20110427