A new Chinese study claims that vitamin D can prevent a major problem in diabetics.
In the newly published study on the “Research Square” website, researchers examined 339 patients from the endocrinology department within the Air Force Medical Center, in Beijing, China, and found that all patients between the ages of 60 and 90 years had type 2 diabetes, while 204 also developed diabetic foot ulcers.
When the researchers looked at the available data, they discovered that 80.5 percent of all patients had low levels of “vitamin D.” Moreover, 85 percent of people with diabetic foot ulcers were deficient in the vitamin, while another 13 percent had low levels of vitamin D. Vitamin D levels were not high enough to be considered adequate, while only 2% of people with diabetic foot ulcers had enough Vitamin D in their bodies.
Dr. Jonah Bordeus stresses that the results of the study do not surprise him because “vitamin D” plays a key role in reducing inflammation and supporting immune health, and when it comes to how the vitamin relates to diabetic foot ulcers, Bordeus explains that “as with any wound, there is a possibility of infection, At the same time, a person with vitamin D deficiency may lack the immune strength needed to mount a strong defense against infection.”
That’s why he suggests that people with diabetes, especially the elderly, get tested for vitamin D deficiency, and discuss with their doctor whether vitamin D supplements are justified, Bordeus added.
Purdues notes, “Continuous education about diabetes management and control are critical components of prevention.
He stresses that if diabetic foot ulcers are present, diabetes education and management may prevent limb amputation.