Vitamin D is Key

Significant vitamin D deficiency in youth with type 1 diabetes mellitus, by Brita M. Svoren and colleagues. Journal of Pediatrics 154:132–134, 2009

What is the problem and what is known about it so far?

Vitamin D is crucial to bone health. Infants and children who do not get enough vitamin D can have weakened or deformed bones and may be more likely to have fractures later in life. Type 1 diabetes also has a negative effect on bone health and has been linked to weakened bones and a greater risk of fractures in adulthood. There are several theories about why diabetes weakens bones, and it is not known whether aggressive diabetes treatment can preserve bone health. Children who have type 1 diabetes and do not get enough vitamin D have an even greater risk of bone problems. Studies have shown that many teens drink less vitamin D-fortified milk than they did as younger children and also may drink more sugar-free colas, which can also hurt bone health. 

Why did the researchers do this particular study?

The researchers wanted to find out how big a problem vitamin D deficiency is for young people with type 1 diabetes in the northeastern United States.

Who was studied?

The study included 128 youths with type 1 diabetes.

How was the study done?

The researchers measured participants' vitamin D levels. Because sunlight is a major source of vitamin D, the researchers noted the season of the year in which each patient was tested. Participants also had A1C and body mass measurements. Participants were divided into those with sufficient, insufficient, and deficient levels of vitamin D.

What did the researchers find?

Less than one-fourth of the participants had adequate levels of vitamin D. Participants' sex, ethnic background, visit season, and weight had no bearing on their vitamin D status. However, those who were deficient were older, had had diabetes for longer, and had lower A1C levels.  More than 4 in 5 of the participants who were 12-18 years of age had a vitamin D deficiency. Low vitamin D levels are more common in children with type 1 diabetes than in those without diabetes.

What are the implications of the study?

Health care providers who treat children with diabetes should be aware of the importance of getting enough vitamin D. Because children with diabetes are already at risk for poor bone health, making sure they get enough vitamin D is an important part of their care.

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