For about two years now my Endocrinologist has been recommending vitamin D in my fight with Diabetes.  With no negative side effects, vitamin D may well just be the help we need to stay healthy for the long run.  The thinking is that a vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of type 1 diabetes.

Every six months my doctor tests my vitamin D level.  He said for me he recommends roughly 50 ng/mL.  When I look at my lab results, the normal range is 20-100 ng/mL.  My dose, according to my current deficiency is about 3,000 IUs per day. 

Another option is to take a Rx dose of vitamin D that equals 50,000 IUs once a week.  I am definitely not a Pharmacist, but it seems that taking that much at once would not be as effective as smaller amounts each day.  My doctor said there is no waste, which just seems illogical to me.  But again, I don’t have MD after my name.  He also suggested that I take 3 doses of 1,000 IUs instead of three separate doses.  I tend to slack off as the day goes on so this should help me stack on track.

After doing some research, I found a few resources that support the benefits of vitamin D for people with Diabetes.

Vitamin D Lowers Insulin Resistance, Diabetes Update

Vitamin D – Key to Fighting Diabetes, Natural News

Low Vitamin D – Link to Diabetes, Reuters Health

Vitamin D Lowers Diabetes Risk, TIME

Most Kids with Diabetes Lack Vitamin D, Joslin Diabetes Center

Vitamin D Forum Discussions, TuDiabetes

A little sun can go a long way too.  Maybe I should lobby for a beach house where I can get more vitamin D.  My suggestion for you is to discuss the possible benefits of vitamin D with your physician.  It can’t hurt, right?

I have been using the NatureMade brand of Vitamin D, which can be found here.  For me, this bottle will last about 3 months and costs about $18.

Have you been told anything similar by your Doctor or Endocrinologist?