Diabetes can deplete certain nutrients and increase susceptibility to specific deficiencies. Targeted supplementation — alongside good dietary choices — can help people with diabetes stay healthier and reduce the risk of complications.

Why Diabetics Are at Higher Risk of Nutritional Deficiency

Elevated blood glucose causes increased urinary losses of magnesium, zinc, and water-soluble vitamins. Metformin (the most commonly prescribed Type 2 medication) significantly impairs Vitamin B12 absorption — studies show up to 30% of long-term metformin users develop B12 deficiency. Oxidative stress is significantly elevated in diabetes, increasing the demand for antioxidant nutrients.

Vitamin D

Low Vitamin D is consistently associated with insulin resistance and higher HbA1c. Since UK residents are commonly deficient, supplementing 10–25mcg daily is prudent for most people with diabetes.

Magnesium

Magnesium is a cofactor for insulin receptor function. Low magnesium is strongly associated with insulin resistance and is found in up to 75% of people with Type 2 diabetes. Magnesium glycinate or malate is well absorbed and gentle on the stomach. 200–400mg daily.

Vitamin B12 for Metformin Users

If you take metformin, have your B12 levels checked regularly and supplement if levels are declining. Methylcobalamin sublingual tablets are an effective option. Don’t wait until deficiency causes symptoms — nerve damage from B12 deficiency can be irreversible.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)

ALA is a potent antioxidant with evidence for reducing diabetic peripheral neuropathy symptoms. Used clinically in Germany for this purpose. Typical dose: 600mg daily.

Vitabiotics Diabetone

Diabetone is a specially formulated multivitamin designed for people with diabetes, containing B vitamins, Vitamin D, Zinc, Magnesium, Chromium and antioxidants. It provides a convenient one-product solution for many of the deficiencies outlined above.

Shop Vitamins for Diabetics at Chemist 2 Customer including Diabetone. Related: Diet and Blood Sugar.