PPIs May Improve Blood Glucose in Some Patients With Diabetes
Results from a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism suggest that some OTC agents, such as the proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) used to treat heartburn and gastric ulcers, may aid diabetics in lowering blood glucose levels. While the study suggests that PPIs are safe in patients with diabetes, the experts do not recommend individuals with diabetes begin taking them improve their blood sugar levels. Read more.

Study Reveals Vitamin D Not Effective for IBS Pain
A recent study finds that the use of vitamin D supplements does not decrease the painful symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The results of the study were published in the European Journal of Nutrition, and Williams et al aimed to assess whether vitamin D supplementation improved IBS symptoms in a community setting in the United Kingdom. Read more.

Having a Diverse Gut Microbiome May Protect Against Diabetes
Studies suggest that the gut microbiome may be linked with development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, these trials are restricted by small sample size, and due to insufficient evidence, their role in the development of T2DM remains uncertain. According to a study in the Netherlands, more diverse gut bacteria, particularly a larger abundance of butyrate-producing bacteria, were linked with both less insulin resistance and less T2DM. Read more.