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