Diabetes Patients are Vulnerable to Micronutrient Deficiencies

JAKARTA - Eating patterns play an important role in managing diabetes, not only in terms of the number of calories or sugar content, but also the overall balance of nutrients.

Until now, more attention has been focused on macronutrients such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, although micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals also play a major role in maintaining the condition of the body of people with diabetes.

Researchers in India revealed that most diabetics suffer from micronutrient deficiencies, including essential vitamins and minerals. This finding is based on a review and meta-analysis of 132 studies involving more than 52 thousand participants from various countries.

The study included men and women over 18 years of age with type 2 diabetes, both those who have experienced complications and those who have not. The data analyzed included the participants' micronutrient status, including vitamin and mineral deficiencies detected through blood tests.

"So far, many studies have focused on macronutrients, but we wanted to look at the relationship between diabetes and micronutrients that are often overlooked," said the researchers in a report quoted from Eating Well.

The results of the analysis showed that more than 45 percent of people with type 2 diabetes were deficient in more than one type of micronutrient. Meanwhile, about 40 percent of people who have experienced complications also have a similar condition.

This study also found that women tend to be more prone to micronutrient deficiencies than men. Vitamin D deficiency is the most common, with a prevalence of more than 60 percent, followed by magnesium deficiency experienced by about 42 percent of sufferers.

In addition, in the group of sufferers who consume metformin, a drug commonly used for diabetes, about 29 percent experience vitamin B12 deficiency.

"These findings suggest a relationship between type 2 diabetes and micronutrient deficiency, although it cannot be confirmed as a causal relationship," explained the researchers.

In everyday life, micronutrient fulfillment can be done through a more balanced diet. Vitamin B12, for example, is found in animal products such as meat, fish, and milk, as well as in fortified plant foods.

Meanwhile, vitamin D can be obtained from exposure to sunlight as well as foods such as egg yolks, fatty fish, liver, and fortified products. Magnesium is also available in various food ingredients, such as nuts, grains, legumes, as well as vegetables and fruits.

Interestingly, dark chocolate is also known as one of the sources of magnesium that is quite high. In fact, some studies have linked the consumption of dark chocolate in moderate amounts with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.

However, researchers warn that diets high in ultra-processed foods and added sugars can potentially make the body deficient in important micronutrients.

"Changing your diet doesn't have to be drastic. Start with small steps, such as replacing one daily habit with a healthier option," the researcher advised.

For example, replacing soda drinks with water, or snacks high in sugar with more nutritious options such as nuts, fruit, or dark chocolate in reasonable portions, can be a first step towards a healthier diet for diabetics.