Vitamins and minerals play a vital role in the proper functioning of the human body. Vitamin deficiencies have now become a common condition in humans. But we should know that when it is left untreated it may lead to many complications.
The human body requires 13 essential vitamins such as A, C, D, E, K, and the B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, B6, B12, and folate) to function properly. Do you know what does Vitamin D deficiency leads to? Read along to know the relationship between vitamin D and diabetes.
In order for the body to absorb the calcium it needs, vitamin D is a key component. Calcium is a key element for bone formation. The immune system, neurological system, and muscle growth are all areas where vitamin D is extremely important. Lack of vitamin D in your diet, the body’s inability to absorb vitamin D, or exposure to less sunlight are the major causes of this deficiency.
Vitamin D deficiency and diabetes
Diabetes is brought on by vitamin D insufficiency, which can also induce inadequate insulin secretion in addition to affecting calcium production. According to a recent survey, it is estimated that 10.5 percent of the population in the United States suffer from diabetes. Let’s give a quick overview of diabetes.
Diabetes is caused when there is an imbalance in the blood sugar level. The term blood sugar is also known as blood glucose. Blood glucose levels are crucial since they are the primary source of energy needed by the body to function. Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas. It is responsible for absorbing the glucose from the food we eat and deliver it to our body’s cells. Diabetes develops when the body either produces no insulin or fails to utilize the insulin that is generated. There are 4 types of diabetes:
Type-1 diabetes
This is an auto-immune disease where the pancreas fails to produce insulin. It can affect anyone from a child to an adult. If left untreated this type of diabetes can be fatal.
Type-2 diabetes
This is a type where the body cells fail to utilize the insulin produced. Obesity, lack of workout, lifestyle changes, and gene factors are the major reasons behind this type.
Prediabetes
Prediabetes is a stage before type-2 diabetes where you will have high blood sugar levels.
Gestational diabetes
This occurs in pregnant women due to hormonal changes. If left untreated, it can harm both the mother and the growing fetus.
How Are Vitamin D and Diabetes Connected?
According to the latest research by experts, people with vitamin D deficiency are likely to develop type-2 diabetes. It is also noted that vitamin D levels are low in people with type-2 diabetes. Vitamin D plays along with the pancreas which is responsible for producing insulin. Though more research on the connection between vitamin D deficiency and diabetes is still under research. It is advisable to consult your healthcare provider if you have vitamin D deficiency in order to maintain your nutrient levels.
