Summary
Gestational diabetes and vitamin D deficiency are related to insulin resistance and an impaired function of beta cells in the pancreas which produces insulin. This study, conducted by researchers from Denmark, Malaysia, and Italy, aimed to evaluate the impact of vitamin D on the glucose metabolism of Asian women with gestational diabetes during 24-28 weeks of pregnancy and vitamin D deficiency. 26 participants received either 4000 IU (100 µg) of vitamin D3 (13 women) or a placebo (13 women) daily. Glucose (sugar) tests were performed, and other parameters, including vitamin D, were measured at the beginning of the study and after 6 months. Additionally, models were used to determine insulin sensitivity and the function of the beta cells. The results showed significantly increased vitamin D levels and a reduction in long-term glucose levels (HbA1c) in the test group compared to the placebo group. Furthermore, a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was observed among these women. 6 months of supplementation safely restored vitamin D levels, improved basal function of the beta cells in the pancreas, and ameliorated several metabolic parameters. For more details, please see the study.
References
Yeow et al.