Best Vitamins for Diabetic Patients
Are you suffering from diabetes? Regular intake of vitamins can help you.
According to a study conducted by the National Library of Medicine, vitamin D maintains normal insulin regulation. But apart from vitamin D, other essential vitamins can help you control this chronic disease.
So, without further delay, take a look at the following recommended vitamins for diabetics.
Essential Vitamins for Diabetic Patients
Take a look at the table below to get a fair idea about the vital vitamins for diabetics:
| Vitamins | Benefits | Food Source |
| Vitamin B1 | Relives the neuropathy pain | Pork, nuts, whole grains |
| Vitamin B6 | Prevents diabetic retinopathy | Peanuts, soybeans, bananas, oats |
| Vitamin B7 | Increases the activity of enzyme glucokinase | Walnuts, mushroom, salmon, egg yolks, sardines |
| Vitamin B9 | Reduces the risk of gestational diabetes | Broccoli, cabbage, kale, spinach, peas, Brussels sprouts |
| Vitamin B12 | Maintains healthy blood cells and the nervous system | Red meat, fish, beef liver, cereal |
| Vitamin C | Controls sorbitol levels in the blood, increases insulin sensitivity | Kiwi, bell peppers, tomatoes, guavas |
| Vitamin D | Regulates insulin in the body | Egg yolk, fish, dairy products |
| Vitamin E | Fights toxins, oxygenates the blood and improves insulin regulation | Sunflower seeds, almonds, avocado, hazelnut |
| Vitamin A | Improves the functionality of insulin-producing β-cell. | Eggs, milk, cheese, fish |
How Vitamins Help You With Diabetes?
There is no potential evidence to suggest any cure for diabetes, be it type 1 or type 2 diabetes. But, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular intake of a nutrient-rich diet can control this disease. If you wonder what nutrients you must include in your daily diet, vitamins should be included in the list.
For instance, the American Diabetes Association released a study stating that vitamin D in the blood serum reduced the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This vitamin also helps to lose weight. Reducing obesity further prevents the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Patients with diabetes mellitus undergo treatment on metformin. This increases the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. Therefore, daily intake of vitamin B12 (2.4 mcg) for patients over 50 years is essential for treating diabetic neuropathy. Take help from the list mentioned above and pick your favourite vitamin B12 rich food and curb the deficiency.
Disclaimer: Remember to consult your doctor before consuming any food to avoid health risks.
Types of Diabetes and Its Corresponding Vitamin Dosage
Here's a brief overview of the different types of diabetes and associated vitamins that can help you control the same.
Type 1 Diabetes: Here, the immune system affects the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Doctors primarily diagnose this diabetes type in children and young people.
Note the following vitamins for diabetics (type 1 diabetes):
| Vitamins for Type 1 Diabetes | Dosage of Vitamin |
|---|---|
| Vitamin D | 15 – 20 mcg (varies with age) |
| Vitamin B12 | 300 – 10,000 mcg (in case of deficiency) |
Type 2 Diabetes: In this case, the body doesn't produce adequate insulin or resist insulin production. Given below is the list of the best vitamins for diabetes type 2:
| Vitamins for Type 2 Diabetes | Dosage of Vitamin |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C | 75 mg (women) – 90 mg(men) |
| Vitamin E | 15 mg (14 years+) |
| Vitamin B6 | 1.3 – 1.7 mg |
Gestational Diabetes: It is primarily diagnosed in pregnant women between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy when their bodies cannot make enough insulin.
As per the WHO, note that consumption of vitamin D oral supplement is not recommended for pregnant women to improve maternal health. Hence, women who have gestational diabetes must consult a doctor before consuming vitamin D. However, diets with high content of vitamin C can protect them from developing gestational diabetes.
What Deficiency of Vitamins Can Cause Diabetics
If you are wondering which vitamin deficiency can cause diabetes, take a look below:
Deficiency in vitamin D and vitamin A increases the risk of causing type 2 diabetes. A study released in Medical News Today said that lack of vitamin A in diet destroys beta cells. This reduces insulin production and increases the blood sugar level in the blood. Ultimately, it leads to the development of type 2 diabetes.
Vitamin D also improves insulin sensitivity. Hence, the deficiency of this vitamin increases insulin resistance, causing type 1 and type 2 diabetes. This is the primary reason why people with diabetes need vitamins.
Management of diabetes involves a modification in dietary habits and lifestyle changes. In terms of diet, make sure to include the essential vitamins for diabetics. But, consult a healthcare practitioner before making any dietary changes as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does exposure to sunlight make up for vitamin D deficiency?
No. It must be supplemented with food rich in vitamin D and other nutritional supplements. However, exposure to the sun is considered the natural source of vitamin D. The best time to get exposed to the sunlight is 10 am - 3 pm.
Does diabetes mean a restricted diet?
No, diabetic patients can eat without restrictions, but in a particular sizable proportion. Besides, essential vitamins for diabetics like vitamin A and D must be present in your diet.