Edo Michael
A Nigerian Endocrinologist, and a professor of pediatrics at UMass Chan Medical School, Benjamin Nwosu has discovered that vitamin D could slow down disease progression in children newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in children and if left untreated, it can cause serious health damage.
The breakthrough research was the first to describe a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in children.
It has since led to a call for routine screening for vitamin D deficiency in patients with IBS.
Nwosu, graduated from the University of Nigeria Nsukka Medical school before leaving for the United States.
Nwosu’s research shows giving young Type 1 diabetes patients doses of vitamin D when they are first diagnosed slowed the progression of the disease, keeping them in what is known as the “honeymoon period” of the illness.
According to Nwosu, vitamin D, which is a cheap and easily available product, has significant impact at this phase.
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“Classically, honeymoon periods last from three to twelve months. However, there are recent studies now showing that they are actually able to pick up C-peptide and evidence of insulin production in people who have had diabetes for more than 50 years. So it can last for long in some people.”
Nwosu however noted that there is more research to be done in terms of the impact of the treatment, but his message to families living with this illness is clear.
“What I think our study shows is that if someone is diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, the parents can actually feel confident to add vitamin D as a supplement to what they are receiving. Most kids are receiving vitamin D anyway,” he said.
Nwosu added that what is most critical for Type 1 diabetes patients is starting treatment and good habits as soon as they are diagnosed with the disease. He said better blood sugar control from the start can keep more serious impacts of the disease at bay.
