Nutrient Deficiencies: The Impact on type 2 Diabetes
Story at-a-glance
- A study that analyzed 52,501 Type 2 diabetes patients found widespread nutrient deficiencies, with vitamin D being most common (60.45%), followed by magnesium (41.95%) and vitamin B12 (28.72%)
- Vitamin D deficiency significantly impairs insulin function and sensitivity, while increasing the risk of complications like diabetic retinopathy, kidney disease and foot ulcers
- Magnesium deficiency creates a vicious cycle among diabetics — low intake increases diabetes risk, while diabetes increases magnesium loss through urination, leading to poorer glycemic control
- Metformin, the most prescribed diabetes medication, depletes vitamin B12 levels by interfering with B12 absorption, which can lead to nerve damage, numbness and fatigue
- Geographic location influences deficiency rates, with the Americas showing the highest prevalence at 54.04% of diabetes patients having at least one micronutrient deficiency
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