- Vitamin D supplements may help prevent type 2 diabetes in individuals with pre-diabetes, but only for those who possess specific genetic variations.
- A study by Tufts University found that pre-diabetic adults with AC and CC variations of the vitamin D receptor gene had a 19 per cent lower risk of developing diabetes when taking a high daily dose of vitamin D.
- Conversely, participants with the AA gene variation, present in 30 per cent of the population, did not show a positive response to the daily vitamin D treatment.
- Pre-diabetes, affecting an estimated 6.3 million people in the UK, can progress to type 2 diabetes if left untreated.
- Experts advise against self-medicating with high doses of vitamin D without medical consultation, as exceeding 100 micrograms (4,000 IU) daily can lead to adverse health effects such as weakened bones and kidney damage.
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