Vitamin D May Prevent Type 1 in Kids

04/15/08 Prevention

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder occurring with the destruction of pancreatic beta cells. It usually starts in early childhood and is most commonly seen in individuals of European descent. The link between vitamin D, which the body synthesizes from the sun, and other autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis, is thought to be strong.

The study revealed an inverse relationship, meaning the higher the dose, the lower the risk. The investigators estimate a nearly 30 percent decrease in childhood diabetes among children with greater sun exposure. This may be demonstrated by the comparison of Finnish children being 400 times more likely to develop type 1 diabetes than a child in Venezuela. Researchers have also found vitamin D receptors on pancreatic beta cells and immune cells.

This does not mean you should overload your child on vitamin D supplements. The literature does not yet specify any dose. But encouraging your youngster to spend more time in the sun will help.

When exposed to the sun, the body has a mechanism to convert the vitamin. It automatically shuts off when it reaches vitamin D capacity. That process is not present when we ingest the supplement; therefore overdosing may occur. Young bodies do not require, nor can they absorb the same amount as adults.

Vitamin D toxicity can lead to muscle aches, pain, loss of muscle mass, weakness, cramps, stiffness, and other complaints. Nerve damage is also a risk, and it is indicated by numbness, pain, poor reflexes, change in taste sensation, impaired hearing, and more. With too much vitamin D body tissue can become plagued with calcium deposits and urinary stones can be symptomatic by severe pain in the kidneys, bladder, and urination.

It is quite important that you speak with your physician to see what is appropriate for your child depending on age, height, and sunlight exposure. Sufficient sunlight might be all that is required.

Sources:

Newsmax.com, March 2008