According to Diabetes Canada, approximately 3.4 million people are living with diabetes in Canada. Of those, an estimated 90-95% have type 2 diabetes. This number is expected to grow as lifestyle changes become more difficult to maintain and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases due to age, genetics, and obesity.
According to Diabetes Canada, type 2 diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in Canada and is responsible for over 10,000 deaths yearly. While lifestyle changes can help prevent or manage the disease, many people with diabetes still suffer from complications related to high blood sugar levels. These include heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, lower extremity amputations, and vision loss. This is where Vitamin D has a significant role.
VITAMIN D
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for good health and immunity. It has been linked to a reduced risk of developing diabetes, as studies have shown that people deficient in vitamin D are more likely to develop the disease than those with adequate levels. Vitamin D also plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels, helping to reduce the risk of complications from high or low glucose levels.
The dangers of low vitamin D levels are numerous and can lead to serious health issues if not addressed. Low levels of vitamin D are not only linked to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes but cardiovascular disease, as well as weakened immunity and bone loss. In addition, people with low vitamin D levels may be at higher risk for depression and other mental health issues.
COFACTORS
Cofactors of vitamin D also have an essential role in preventing type 2 diabetes. Deficiencies of magnesium and vitamin K2 are common.
The magnesium deficiency rate in Canada is alarmingly high. According to Statistics Canada, approximately 28% of Canadians are deficient in magnesium, even higher among those with type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that people with type 2 diabetes are twice as likely to be deficient in magnesium than those without
Vitamin K2 deficiency is also common in Canada, affecting approximately 10-15% of the population. This rate is even higher among those living with type 2 diabetes, with studies showing that these individuals are three times as likely to be deficient in vitamin K2 than those without diabetes.
SOLUTIONS
Fortunately, there are several ways to ensure you’re getting enough vitamin D. Taking a daily multivitamin or supplementing with vitamin D is one way to ensure your body has the nutrients it needs. Eating foods rich in vitamin D, such as fatty fish and egg yolks, can also help boost your levels. And, of course, we have sunshine! This allows your body to produce vitamin D naturally, so get out in the sun!
Truehope's BMD with K2 is the perfect product to ensure your magnesium, K2, and other vital vitamins and minerals stay above the required levels.
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for good health and immunity. Not only can it help reduce the risk of developing diabetes, but also protect against cardiovascular disease, weakened immunity, bone loss, depression and other mental health issues. To ensure you get enough Vitamin D in your diet, consider taking a multivitamin or supplementing with vitamin D and eating foods rich in this vital nutrient, such as fatty fish, egg yolks, fortified foods or spending some time outdoors in the sun. Incorporating these strategies into your lifestyle will help keep you healthy and strong!
All the best,
Simon Brazier. Dip HN, NNCP
simon@truehope.com
