Pharmacy and Wellness Review
Abstract
Insulin resistance is one of the pathological hallmarks that leads to the development of type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Around 40% of people aged 18 to 44 living in the United States have insulin resistance. Recent research, coupled with a better understanding of how vitamin K functions in the body, suggests that this vitamin could potentially help reduce insulin resistance. Vitamin K is not included in the American Diabetes Association (ADA) guidelines for the treatment of insulin resistance, but it has been shown to have some benefits in patients with T2DM. It may also serve as a treatment option for patients at risk of developing insulin resistance. Upon evaluation of clinical trials, the effects of vitamin K supplementation on insulin resistance were assessed in various populations. The studies indicated that vitamin K supplementation may be considered in patients suffering from or at risk of developing insulin resistance. Providers can use this information to provide counseling on drug interactions as well as offer options for supplemental vitamin K through foods and over-the-counter products.
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Endocrine System Diseases Commons, Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism Commons, Medical Pathology Commons, Medical Pharmacology Commons, Medical Physiology Commons