Examining the benefits of vitamin D supplements for patients with diabetic foot ulcers

This study examined the effects of vitamin D supplements on wound healing in diabetic patients with foot ulcers. Researchers concluded that 12 weeks of vitamin D supplementation resulted in improved wound healing.

It has been estimated that between 10 to 25% of diabetic patients develop ulcers on their feet. A foot ulcer is prone to infection, which may become severe and foot care is necessary. Studies have shown that patients with a diabetic foot ulcer have a higher mortality rate compared to diabetic patients without a foot ulcer.

In recent years, there has been an effort to better understand the role of vitamin D in diabetes. Low vitamin D levels have been associated with decreased insulin (a hormone which helps break down the sugar from food) sensitivity and release. Vitamin D is also known to have a beneficial effect on wound healing. This may be particularly important for diabetic patients with foot ulcers.

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of vitamin D supplements on wound healing in diabetic patients with foot ulcers.

60 diabetic patients with moderate-to-severe foot ulcers were included in this study. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either a high-dose vitamin D supplement every 2 weeks for 12 weeks or a placebo (control drug with no active effect). Blood samples were taken before and after treatment.

Vitamin D supplementation resulted in significantly improved wound healing of the foot ulcer. The length, width, and depth of the ulcers were all reduced at 12 weeks by an average of 1 to 2 cm each. Measures of insulin resistance as well as cholesterol levels were also significantly improved when compared to placebo.

Researchers concluded that 12 weeks of vitamin D supplementation resulted in improved wound healing of diabetic foot ulcers. Beneficial effects on insulin resistance and cholesterol levels were also observed.

Larger studies are needed to confirm these results.