People with diabetes often suffer from a range of symptoms from increased urination, thirst, fatigue, slow-healing sores, and frequent infections. However, what's perhaps a lesser-known aspect of diabetes is that managing the disease may leave a person deficient in crucial vitamins and minerals.

A new study published in the journal BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health sheds light on how the metabolic disorder could raise the risk of multiple nutritional deficiencies.

The study noted that battling the disease could deplete levels of vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, and other important nutrients in the body, which can further worsen it.

The research team involved in the study concluded that people trying to manage diabetes through diet may end up with nutritional deficiencies.

Diabetes is a tricky disease to manage as it changes the way your body processes glucose due to the pancreas not being able to produce sufficient insulin or unable to make it at all. When insulin, which is tasked with blood sugar management, is not sufficient in the body, the glucose remains in your blood and doesn’t reach your cells. This excess sugar could start damaging the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart, complicating your health woes.

According to this new research, as many as 45% of people with type 2 diabetes have multiple deficiencies in vitamins, minerals and electrolytes.

Where was the data sourced from?For this review, the research team led by Dr. Daya Krishan Mangal, an adjunct professor at the International Institute of Health Management Research in Jaipur, India, studied results from 132 prior studies involving more than 52,500 participants between 1998 and 2023.

Common vitamin and mineral deficiencies in people with diabetes
Vitamin D: The most common deficiency seen among people with type 2 diabetes was extremely low levels of Vitamin D which affected more than 60% of the people.

Vitamin B12: People on diabetes drug metformin faced higher risk of B12 deficiency. Around 29% of the participants in the study had low levels of the vitamin.

It was found that women with diabetes are more likely to have vitamin deficiencies than men. The study data shows 49% women had vitamin deficiencies, compared to 43% of their male counterparts.

Other common deficiencies included magnesium (42%) and iron (28%).

People with diabetes living in North and South America had more chances (54%) of vitamin deficiencies than those who are not.

Researchers highlight that while the focus during treatment is more on energy metabolism and macronutrients, but it is important to address specific micronutrient deficiencies in those affected to prevent the disease from worsening and save the diabetics from its many complications.

Diabetes-friendly ways to increase vitamins and mineral intake

Nutrient-dense foods: There is no dearth of options when it comes to including leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and low-glycemic fruits in your daily diet for meeting essential vitamins and minerals needs.

Fortified foods: Diabetes who are leading a vegan lifestyle can opt for fortified plant-based milk, cereals, and whole grains to boost vitamin D, B12, and iron intake.

Combination foods: Specific food combinations can help boost nutritional value. Combine vitamin C-rich foods (like bell peppers) with iron sources (like spinach) to enhance absorption.

Avoid deep frying: One should try to opt for healthier cooking methods and avoid deep frying foods as it can raise cholesterol and blood pressure. Steaming and roasting help retain nutrients without adding unhealthy fats or sugars.

(Picture courtesy: iStock)