The role of Vitamin D in lowering diabetes risk has been repeatedly documented. In this century where the number of diabetes cases is increasing rapidly simpler, inexpensive, and sustainable approaches can be utilized to encounter the scenario. A recent review published in 'The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism' gives insights into the evidence-based research outcomes that underline the significant role of Vitamin D in decreasing diabetes risk.

      The comprehensive literature review was performed to identify the recent meta-analyses of longitudinal observational studies that report the association between blood 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) level and incident diabetes, and clinical trials of adults with prediabetes that have reported the effect of Vitamin D supplementation on incident diabetes.

      According to the review, multiple factors such as route of administration (oral or cutaneous), body weight, environmental factors, diet etc. need to be considered while emphasizing the effect of Vitamin D in individuals with diabetes. The review also revealed that factors such as body weight and BMI which influence the blood 25(OH)D level also independently influence the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The review also signifies the importance of physical activity in reducing BMI and lowering diabetes risk. It was also observed that when physical activity takes place out-of-doors, the increased cutaneous biosynthesis of vitamin D increases the circulating 25(OH)D level.

      A recommendation of whether “to D or not to D” should be made based on the best available data from both observational studies and clinical trials. Even if the risk reduction with vitamin D supplementation may appear relatively small, when applied in the expanding prediabetes population, it can have important public health implications.

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