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Diabetes and prediabetes are rampant in our country. 38 million Americans have diabetes, and 90% of these are Type 2 diabetics. Many studies have focused on what are called “macronutrients”- carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. But new research was looking particularly at micronutrients, which are vitamins and minerals.
Is there a link between micronutrients and diabetes?
This was published in the January 2025 British Medical Journal of Nutrition, Prevention, and Health.
Study:
- Meta analysis of prior micronutrient studies and diabetes. They found 132 studies which qualified.
- 52,501 patients
- Men and women, varying ethnic groups, Type 2 diabetics
- Bloodwork was analyzed.
Findings?
- 45% of Type 2 diabetics had multiple micronutrient deficiencies, with 40% of them having complications from those deficiencies.
- Women were more likely to be micronutrient deficient
- Most common deficiency? Vitamin D, found in 60% of Type 2 Diabetics.
- Magnesium was second, found in 42%
- For those on metformin, Vitamin B12 deficiency was found in 29%
What we found interesting was their discussion. The researchers wondered which came first. Did the deficiency cause diabetes? Or did diabetes cause the deficiency? It is a classic chicken and egg question.
So what should you do?
TEST. We have individual testing for D and B12 or do our comprehensive micronutrient testing.
TREAT.
- We sell Vitamin D (NSF Certified, 5000 IU). Vitamin. It is also found in sunlight. Foods rich in D are egg yolks, mushrooms, and fatty fish.
- B12 can be taken in a vitamin, or you can find it in animal products (think meat, fish, dairy) or fortified foods.
- Magnesium can be taken as a vitamin. It is also found in nuts, seeds, legumes, fruits and vegetables, and dark chocolate. (Remember our blog on the study about how dark chocolate helps prevent Type 2 diabetes? Read it here)