Can vitamin D help prevent diabetes? Possibly, if you have the right genes

• Vitamin D, which is mainly obtained from sunlight exposure, followed by dietary sources such as oily fish and dairy, plays an important role in our overall health.
• Previous studies have linked vitamin D deficiency to a higher risk for certain diseases, including type 2 diabetes.
• A new study found that vitamin D supplements may help delay or prevent disease progression in those with prediabetes who also have specific variations in their vitamin D receptor gene.

Vitamin D, obtained through exposure to sunlight and eating certain foods like fatty fish and egg yolks, plays an important role in our overall health.

Past research shows that vitamin D is important for bone health, including keeping bones strong and helping prevent musculoskeletal issues like weak muscles, and supports the body’s immune system.

Previous studies have linked vitamin D deficiency to a higher risk for certain diseases, including cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, multiple sclerosis, dementia, and type 2 diabetes.

Now, a new study published in the journal JAMA Network Open reports that vitamin D supplementation may help delay or prevent disease progression in those with prediabetes who also have specific variants in their vitamin D receptor gene.