Vitamin D is making headlines again this week, thanks to Canadian researchers.
A new study published in the latest Journal of Biological Chemistry has found a link between vitamin D intake and Crohn’s disease, the inflammatory disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract and can cause abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.
The researchers from McGill University and the Universite de Montreal found that vitamin D deficiency can contribute to Crohn’s disease at the cellular level. After performing genetic analysis of cells treated with vitamin D, they found that the vitamin was actually capable of switching on some of the genes responsible for preventing Crohn’s disease.
While clinical trials will be necessary to support their research, the findings are exciting news for the many Canadians who suffer from the disease. According to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of Canada, Canadians have among the highest rates of Crohn’s and colitis in the world, with over 200,000 people affected by both diseases. Not surprisingly, the rates of vitamin D deficiency in Canada are also exceptionally high due to our northern latitude and lack of sunshine in the winter months. Despite it’s prevalence, Crohn’s disease is a chronic disease, for which there is no cure.
For more information on Crohn’s disease, please click here to visit the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of Canada website.
All research on this web site is the property of Leslie Beck Nutrition Consulting Inc. and is protected by copyright. Keep in mind that research on these matters continues daily and is subject to change. The information presented is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. It is intended to provide ongoing support of your healthy lifestyle practices.