title: Vitamin D and diabetes: the odd couple.
abstract: The beneficial effects of vitamin D supplementation for several health-related issues, including the prevention of diabetes, are a topic of intense discussion. Data from epidemiological studies suggest a correlation between vitamin D deficiency and higher prevalence of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes (T1D and T2D). In animal models, vitamin D deficiency predisposes to diabetes whereas vitamin D supplementation prevents disease. Nevertheless, well-designed clinical intervention studies are lacking. We discuss here the evidence for a role of vitamin D in diabetes and propose that vitamin D deficiency should be avoided, especially in all at-risk people. This should be possible by implementing global guidelines and by focusing on daily dietary supplementation with small doses of vitamin D.
authors: Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, Katholieke Universiteit (KU) Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N 1 Herestraat 49, Box 902, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
authors: Tom L
authors: TL
authors: Van Belle
authors: Conny
authors: C
authors: Gysemans
authors: Chantal
authors: C
authors: Mathieu
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000097:blood / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D006801:Humans; D014807:Vitamin D / Q000097:blood* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014808:Vitamin D Deficiency / Q000150:complications / Q000517:prevention & control
chemical_list: D014807:Vitamin D