Can vitamin D supplementation in infancy prevent type 1 diabetes?

Nutr Rev. 2002 Apr;60(4):118-21. doi: 10.1301/00296640260085868.

Abstract

Several recent European studies suggested that supplementing infants with vitamin D during their first year might prevent type 1 diabetes. A dose of 50 microg/day was associated with decreased diabetes risk in Finland, but the effectiveness of lower doses was not examined. The recommended dietary intake of vitamin D for U.S. infants is 5 microg/day and the tolerable upper level is 25 microg/day. There is no evidence that intakes between 5 and 25 microg/day would reduce diabetes incidence, but it would seem prudent to ensure that infants reach at least the lower end of this range.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / prevention & control*
  • Dietary Supplements*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Vitamin D / administration & dosage*

Substances

  • Vitamin D