Recent studies have shown a clear relationship between vitamin D and blood sugar control, suggesting vitamin D increases insulin sensitivity and improves pancreatic beta-cell function. In this new cross-sectional study involving 680 Brazilian women aged 35–74 years, the goal was to evaluate the possible association between vitamin D deficiency and increased blood sugar. Of the women interviewed, 3.5 per cent reported using vitamin D supplements. Vitamin D supplementation was found to be negatively associated with high glucose levels. Habitual exposure to the sun also provided the same association, suggesting that vitamin D deficiencies are associated with high blood glucose levels. This study does not prove a causal relationship between vitamin D and poor blood sugar control but it does add to the mounting evidence suggesting a link. At the very least, given the capacity of exercise to improve blood sugar control, it makes that daily walk outside even more worthwhile.
Source: Menopause
