A comprehensive new study finds that 45% of people with type 2 diabetes suffer from vitamin and mineral deficiencies, with vitamin D and magnesium being the most lacking nutrients. The findings highlight the importance of addressing micronutrient needs in diabetes care.
A recent systematic review published in the journal BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health reveals that micronutrient deficiency is alarmingly common among individuals with type 2 diabetes. The study found that 45% of these patients lack essential vitamins and minerals crucial for maintaining overall health — a phenomenon researchers are calling “hidden hunger.”
Women with type 2 diabetes are at a greater risk of these deficiencies than men, with nearly 49% of women affected. The data indicate the most prevalent deficiencies include vitamin D, magnesium and iron. An astounding 60.5% of participants showed very low levels of vitamin D, while 42% lacked sufficient magnesium and 28% were deficient in iron.
Genetic predisposition, unhealthy diet, environmental factors, sedentary lifestyle and obesity are significant risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Prior research has indicated that micronutrients play a key role in glucose metabolism and insulin signaling pathways, pointing to the critical need for nutrient optimization in diabetes care.
“This systematic review exemplifies the double burden of malnutrition in action, whereby nutritional deficiencies and diet-related non-communicable diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, co-exist,” Shane McAuliffe, a visiting senior academic associate at NNEdPro Global Institute for Food, Nutrition and Health, which co-owns the journal, said in a news release.
In an effort to quantify the global prevalence of micronutrient deficiency among those with type 2 diabetes, the researchers analyzed data from 132 studies, which included 52,501 participants from around the world.
The studies spanned several languages and were conducted between 1998 and 2023. Most data were derived from hospital-based studies.
The findings showed that regional dietary habits, lifestyles and cultural practices might influence the prevalence rates of these deficiencies. The Americas reported the highest prevalence at 54%. Notably, individuals taking metformin, a common medication for type 2 diabetes, exhibited an even higher prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency at 29%.
The researchers cautioned that most of the analyzed studies were cross-sectional, making it difficult to determine whether the deficiencies cause poor glycemic control or are a consequence of it. Also, due to a lack of valid population-based studies, making comparisons between type 2 diabetes patients and the general population remains challenging.
“The treatment of type 2 diabetes often tends to focus on energy metabolism and macronutrients, but the identification of a higher prevalence of specific micronutrient deficiencies in those affected is a reminder that optimizing overall nutrition should always be a priority,” McAuliffe added.
As diabetes continues to present a significant global health challenge, these findings urge policymakers and researchers to focus on understanding the causes and effects of these deficiencies further. Potentially, tailored nutritional interventions could significantly benefit diabetes management and overall patient health.
This study underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to treating type 2 diabetes, one that includes addressing the often-overlooked micronutrient needs of patients.