More than 4 million Britons are living with diabetes, with 90% of them suffering from type 2, Diabetes UK reports.
The chronic disease, which leads to excessively high blood sugar levels, is linked to a shocking 660 heart attacks and 930 strokes that occur every week.
However, the latest research offers hope for tackling this debilitating disease. In a study of individuals with 'pre-diabetes' - or elevated blood sugar levels - a key dietary ingredient was found to reduce the risk of diabetes by 15%.
Believe it or not, that nutrient is vitamin D. The American research team, led by Tufts Medical Center, reveals that it also "increases the likelihood of regression to normal glucose regulation by 30%."
"The aim was to assess whether vitamin D intake reduces the risk of diabetes among people with prediabetes," the study authors write. "In adults with prediabetes, vitamin D was effective in reducing diabetes risk."
It is important to note that the researchers specify that their study only applied to people with "prediabetes," not the general population. Yet they are not the only ones to highlight the benefits of vitamin D consumption.
Data from the UK's National Institute of Health (NIH) suggests that vitamin D also plays a vital role in muscle movement and nerve communication throughout the body. Other experts have even linked it to a reduced risk of various cancers and multiple sclerosis, although further research is needed to fully understand these links.
Although our skin can generate vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, it can also be obtained through certain foods. Oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and tuna are prime examples, while cheese and mushrooms are also rich in this essential nutrient.
Senior nutritionist Victoria Taylor from the British Heart Foundation explains:
"Even if you eat vitamin D-rich foods, it's unlikely you'll get all the amount you need from food. It's recommended to take 10 micrograms of vitamin D every day. Most vitamin D is formed through the skin when we are outside in daylight."
"From April to September in the UK, sunlight plus a healthy balanced diet is enough to meet most people's needs. From October to March it is advisable to take a vitamin D supplement," Taylor said.
Despite its benefits, it is crucial to avoid consuming too much vitamin D, as this can lead to a whole host of different health problems.
"Taking too many vitamin D supplements over a long period of time can lead to too much calcium building up in the body (hypercalcemia). This can weaken bones and damage the kidneys and heart. If you choose to take vitamin D supplements, 10 micrograms a day is enough for most people," explained the UK's National Health Service (NHS).
"Do not take more than 100 micrograms of vitamin D a day as this can be harmful. This applies to adults, including pregnant and breastfeeding women and the elderly, as well as children aged 11 to 17," the NHS said. | BGNES
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