Vitamin deficiencies are common in people with diabetes |

Research has found that micronutrient deficiency is all too common in people with type 2 diabetes. This can happen for several reasons. For example, some diabetes medications (like metformin) can interfere with nutrient absorption, and chronic high blood sugar can cause the body to lose vitamins (especially in the urine). Further, some dietary restrictions also lead to a gap. As a result, people with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes commonly show deficiencies in vitamins such as D and B-group vitamins. Below, we look at key vitamins that are often low in diabetic people

Vitamin D deficiency

Vitamin D is found in foods like fatty fish, mushrooms, eggs, and fortified dairy. Studies show that vitamin D deficiency is very common in diabetes. One recent study found that about 74% of type 2 diabetics had vitamin D levels below the normal range. Even the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that having diabetes is itself a risk factor for low vitamin D.

Low vitamin D in diabetes is problematic because vitamin D helps with calcium absorption and supports bone, muscle, and immune health. Deficiency can lead to weak bones and muscle aches.

Vitamin B12 deficiency

Vitamin B12 is found in animal foods and is needed for red blood cell production and nerve function. Deficiency of B12 is surprisingly common in diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes. Much of this is because of metformin, the most common diabetes drug for type 2. Mayo Clinic notes that some people who take metformin may get B-12 deficiency and might need supplements. Over time, metformin interferes with B12 absorption, causing levels to drop. At the same time, people with long-standing type 1 diabetes sometimes develop autoimmune gastritis or pernicious anemia, which also blocks B12 absorption.

Thiamine (Vitamin B1) deficiency

In diabetes, thiamine levels tend to fall for two reasons. First, high blood sugar speeds up the loss of thiamine in urine. Studies report that people with diabetes lose thiamine much faster through the kidneys than non-diabetics.

Vitamin B6 Deficiency

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is important for nerve and blood cell health. Research suggests that vitamin B6 levels tend to be lower in people with diabetes. A study found a clear inverse association between B6 levels and diabetes, meaning “people with diabetes often have lower B6”. Chronic inflammation and high blood sugar may raise the body’s need for B6, and limited research indicates many diabetics do not get enough.

Vitamin C Deficiency

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an antioxidant most commonly found in fruits and vegetables. People with diabetes often have lower vitamin C levels than healthy people. A recent study of type 2 diabetics found 55% had subnormal vitamin C (either “deficient” or “inadequate”). In other words, more than half of those patients did not meet the recommended vitamin C level. This deficiency may be due to higher oxidative stress (which uses up vitamin C) and poor diet.Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplements, or diabetes management plan.