Alternative Health Blog

In a study involving data from 59,796 middle-aged older men and women with no history of type 2 diabetes or any other serious chronic disease, among subjects with high dietary vitamin D intake, calcium intake was found to be inversely associated with diabetes risk (OR for the highest versus the lowest intake: 0.62 in men, 0.59 in women). In women, dairy food intake was significantly associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes as well. Calcium intake was not associated with a very significant reduction in type 2 diabetes risk (multivariable OR for the highest vs. lowest quartiles: 0.93 in men, 0.76 in women). The subjects were followed up with for 5 years, during which time 1,114 cases of type 2 diabetes were documented. The authors conclude, “Our finding suggesting a joint action of these nutrients [calcium and vitamin D] against type 2 diabetes warrants further investigation

 

Reference:

“Calcium, vitamin D and dairy intake in relation to type 2 diabetes risk in a Japanese cohort,” Kirii K, Mizoue T, et al, Diabetologia, 2009; Oct 13