Diabetes and Vitamins

Diabetics often find it difficult to acquire the necessary vitamins to maintain optimum health. Your doctor can inform you of the vitamins you will need in your particular situation, along with the prescribed medications. Studies have shown that people who are lacking in vitamins B, C, and D are linked to insulin issues, causing them to be insulin resistant or have inadequate insulin production. Taking a closer look at the vitamins that should be discussed with your doctor, and knowing why they are important, will ensure that you maintain good health.  (Vitamin intake is crucial for many illness, so be sure to talk with your doctor About Cerebal Palsy, high blood pressure, and other illnesses.)

Vitamin E – Vitamin E is very important for diabetics. It reduces complications by fighting toxins, working as an antioxidant, as well as supplying oxygen to the blood. According to studies, diabetics who are lacking vitamin E in their blood are more likely to acquire type 2 diabetes.

Vitamin C – Diabetics are often deficient in vitamin C. For those with type 1 diabetes, vitamin C can help lower levels of sorbitol. The accumulation of sorbitol, a bad sugar, can cause diabetic conditions and complications, such as, neuropathy, retinopathy, and renal damage. In type 2 diabetics, vitamin C is shown to improve glucose tolerance.

Vitamin B (B6 & B12) – Diabetics who are lacking in B6 most often suffer from neuropathy, which is nerve damage. B6 can improve glucose tolerance, especially in women who suffer from gestational diabetes, or those who have taken birth control pills and have become glucose intolerant. Vitamin B12 helps the nerve cells to function properly, and it is said to be highly effective for those who suffer from neuropathy, as it may help to ward off nerve damage.

Vitamin D – Vitamin D is very important because a deficiency in this vitamin, which is also a hormone, can predispose people to both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Low levels impede the accurate functioning of the cells that produce insulin. Vitamin D is difficult to get in foods, so a supplement is usually prescribed.