Vitamin D: A New Hope for Type 1 Diabetes Treatment?

Posted on: Tuesday, April 23rd 2024 at 3:00 am

Written By: 

GreenMedInfo Research Group

A groundbreaking study has uncovered a simple, cost-effective way to improve the lives of millions living with Type 1 diabetes - and it all starts with a humble vitamin supplement.

Vitamin D, often called the "sunshine vitamin," is well-known for its role in maintaining healthy bones. However, a recent study published in JAMA Network Open has shed light on its potential to revolutionize the treatment of Type 1 diabetes, especially in young people.1

The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, led by Dr. Benjamin Udoka Nwosu from Northwell Health's Cohen Children's Medical Center, investigated the effects of high-dose vitamin D supplementation on insulin production and the honeymoon phase in youth aged 10-21 years with newly diagnosed Type 1 diabetes.1 The honeymoon phase is a critical period following diagnosis when the body still produces some insulin, and prolonging this phase can lead to better long-term outcomes.2

Thirty-six participants were randomly assigned to receive either ergocalciferol, a form of vitamin D, or a placebo for 12 months. The ergocalciferol group received 50,000 IU per week for the first two months, followed by the same dose biweekly for the remaining ten months.1 This dosage is significantly higher than the recommended daily allowance of 600-800 IU for this age group.3

The study measured the participants' fasting proinsulin to C-peptide ratio (PI:C) and the percent change in the area under the curve (AUC) of C-peptide, both indicators of insulin production and beta-cell function.1 C-peptide is a byproduct of insulin production and its presence signifies that the body is still making insulin.2

The results were promising. Ergocalciferol supplementation significantly decreased fasting PI:C compared to placebo (mean [SE], -0.0009 [0.0008] vs 0.0011 [0.0003]; P = .01).1 Additionally, the mean decrease in the percent change from baseline AUC for C-peptide was slower in the ergocalciferol group compared to placebo (-28.4% vs -41.5%; P = .03).1 These findings suggest that vitamin D supplementation can improve insulin production and extend the honeymoon phase in newly diagnosed Type 1 diabetes.

The study builds upon Dr. Nwosu's previous work, which demonstrated vitamin D's safety and efficacy in improving glucose control and prolonging the remission phase in children with Type 1 diabetes.2 The current trial's effect size for beta-cell protection (15%) is comparable to other investigational therapies like imatinib and verapamil.1

While vitamin D supplementation shows promise, it is not a standalone treatment for Type 1 diabetes. Dr. Charles Schleien from Northwell Health noted that repurposing safe and effective supplements like vitamin D presents an opportunity to develop additional therapies needed to comprehensively treat the disease.2

The implications of this research are significant. Type 1 diabetes affects millions worldwide, and current treatment options can be costly and burdensome.2 Vitamin D supplementation offers a more affordable and accessible approach to improve the lives of those living with the condition, especially in the crucial early stages of disease management.

As with any new treatment, further research is needed to confirm these findings and determine optimal dosing strategies. However, this study provides a glimmer of hope for the millions of young people and their families navigating the challenges of Type 1 diabetes. By harnessing the power of a simple vitamin, we may be one step closer to improving outcomes and quality of life for those affected by this chronic condition.

For more information on natural substances researched to have value in Type 1 diabetes, view our article on the topic here.

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References

1. Nwosu BU, Parajuli S, Sharma RB, Lee AF. Effect of Ergocalciferol on β-Cell Function in New-Onset Type 1 Diabetes: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Network Open. 2024;7(3):e241155. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.1155

2. Dahnke A. Vitamin D Could Help Treat Young People With Type 1 Diabetes, Improve Insulin Production. Published March 11, 2024. Updated March 20, 2024. https://www.verywell.com/how-vitamin-d-extends-honeymoon-phase-type-1-diabetes-6753158

3. Institute of Medicine, Food and Nutrition Board. Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2010.