The Best Vitamins For People with Diabetes

Key Takeaways

• Type 2 diabetes patients are offered many vitamins and supplements, but not all are clinically proven.
  
  
• Unless an individual has a diagnosed vitamin deficiency or is at a greater risk for a deficiency, vitamin supplementation is not recommended for people with diabetes.
  
  
• A vitamin supplement can cause harm or be beneficial if you have type 2 diabetes, so consult your healthcare provider before taking one.

A vitamin is an essential macronutrient that contributes to a person's health. Even though most people with type 2 diabetes consume enough vitamins in their diet, there are some circumstances in which vitamins can be beneficial. Some vitamins can also harm people with diabetes.

Before taking any vitamin supplementation, check the evidence if you have diabetes. Ask your healthcare provider for guidance if you need clarification on whether a particular vitamin will harm you.

My article explores the research behind vitamins and type 2 diabetes and discusses which vitamins may be harmful and which may be helpful.

How Vitamins Can Help People with Diabetes

Vitamins are mainly obtained from food. It is possible to correct or prevent vitamin deficiencies by taking a vitamin supplement in some cases.

Some strict vegans, the elderly, and people following low-calorie diets may benefit from vitamin supplementation. Although vitamin supplementation for diabetes patients isn't conclusive, some circumstances may make taking specific vitamins beneficial for diabetics. According to research, specific vitamins may help people with type 2 diabetes lower their fasting glucose levels and reduce their cardiovascular risk. Diabetes patients may also be at risk for certain vitamins.

Ask your provider whether it's safe to use a vitamin before taking it, and look at the evidence behind it. Remember that vitamin supplements should never replace a healthy diet, medication, or other diabetes treatments recommended by a health care provider.

Vitamin B1

It has been shown that people with diabetes tend to have low levels of vitamin B1 (also called thiamine). According to one study, thiamine replacement prevents glucose metabolism by-products from forming, reduces oxidative stress, and improves blood vessel function. A second study found that vitamin B1 may help reduce kidney damage in diabetes-related kidney disease patients. In some cases, vitamin B1 supplementation may benefit people with type 2 diabetes, but more research is needed to determine whether it will benefit everyone.

Vitamin B12

Metformin lowers vitamin B12 levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Taking a vitamin B12 supplement can help correct a vitamin B12 deficiency caused by this medication. Talk to your healthcare provider about testing to determine your vitamin deficiency.

Vitamin D

A study suggests that vitamin D supplements can help decrease insulin resistance in people whose A1c levels are well controlled. Vitamin D has been studied inconclusively as a treatment for diabetes. Vitamin D does not support type 2 diabetes treatment unless you're deficient in it, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA).

Magnesium

Magnesium deficiency is more likely to occur in individuals with diets high in processed foods or poor. Whole grains, leafy vegetables, legumes, and nuts are rich in magnesium, which is found in whole foods. A meta-analysis found that magnesium supplements may also help people with type 2 diabetes reduce fasting glucose levels, although long-term effects are still pending. Moreover, magnesium could reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in type 2 diabetics, according to another systematic review and meta-analysis.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E supplements could cause dangerous side effects in people with type 2 diabetes. Specifically, vitamin E increases bleeding risk when used alongside blood-thinning medications. Your blood levels of vitamin E will be higher if you take warfarin and other blood thinners. Supplements containing vitamin E should be avoided if you fall into this category. Consult your provider before taking vitamin E or any other supplement if you are taking a blood thinner or at a greater risk of bleeding.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C supplements are not proven to benefit those with type 2 diabetes (ADA). Vitamin C does not seem to prevent diabetes complications, either, according to the ADA.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Best Vitamins For People With Diabetes?

Those with type 2 diabetes may benefit from vitamin B1, vitamin D, and magnesium. Please contact your healthcare provider to determine if a vitamin supplement is safe.

Is It Suitable For People With Diabetes To Take Vitamins?

Vitamins are not recommended by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) for people with diabetes unless they are diagnosed with a vitamin deficiency or are at a higher risk of developing one.

What Vitamin Helps Reduce Blood Sugar?

Vitamin supplementation hasn't been proven to lower blood sugar. Your healthcare provider can assist you in lowering and monitoring your blood sugar if you have type 2 diabetes.

How Can Mobi Doctor Help

With Mobi Doctor, you have access to online urgent care. Get an instant diagnosis, explore conditions and treatments, and text a healthcare professional if needed.