Are You Missing These 5 Key Nutrients? Alarming Deficiencies in Type 2 Diabetes Uncovered

Managing type 2 diabetes goes far beyond just watching blood sugar levels. A new study published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health (29 Jan, 2025) highlights an often-overlooked aspect: micronutrient deficiencies—that is deficiency in vitamins and minerals.

This is not really something ‘new,’ as deficiencies have been previously documented. However, this new research reveals that many people with type 2 diabetes may be walking around with multiple and significant nutrient gaps, impacting their overall health and ability to manage their condition effectively.

If you’re living with type 2 diabetes, this discovery could be the missing piece in your health puzzle.

The Diabetes Nutrient Deficiency Crisis

The study found that deficiencies in key nutrients—such as magnesium, vitamin D, iron, and vitamin B12—are extremely common among people with type 2 diabetes, with almost half of people living with type 2 diabetes experiencing multiple deficiencies.

These deficiencies can affect everything from nerve function and insulin sensitivity to cardiovascular health and energy levels, along with increasing hunger in diabetes.

Let’s take a closer look at the most commonly missed nutrients and why they matter.

Magnesium

Magnesium plays a crucial role in insulin regulation and glucose metabolism, two key processes that you need working well with diabetes.

Low magnesium levels have been linked to poor blood sugar control and an increased risk of complications like heart disease.

One of the most important things to know is that magnesium is a co-factor connected to carbohydrate metabolism and the way your body uses glucose (sugar).

Magnesium is involved in over 600 enzymatic processes in the body and many of these processes are essential for people with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes.

You can test for magnesium deficiency but the thing is, many people can be insufficient and that may not turn up on a test.

In most cases, people with diabetes need to take a magnesium supplement in order to achieve and maintain adequate magnesium levels.

Vitamin B12

Long-term use of metformin, a common medication for type 2 diabetes, can lead to low B12 levels. In fact, up to 50% of people will experience a B12 deficiency from Metformin. Deficiency becomes more of a concern after 4-5 years on the drug.

Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause nerve damage (neuropathy), leading to tingling or numbness in the hands and feet. Other symptoms of deficiency include loss of appetite and constipation, depression, irritability and balance issues.

Our body cannot produce vitamin B internally so we must get it from the food we eat or vitamin B12 supplements.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D receptors are located in over 38 tissues throughout the body! Through binding to the vitamin D receptors it then plays a role in regulating hundreds of genes.

In terms of type 2 diabetes, vitamin D is involved in pancreatic function and insulin production.

A vitamin D deficiency may worsen insulin resistance, increase oxidative stress in cells and increase cellular inflammation, making blood sugar harder to control.

You must ensure adequate sunlight and dietary intake, or consider vitamin D supplements if necessary.

Zinc

Essential for immune function and wound healing, zinc deficiency is another concern, especially since diabetes can slow healing and increase the risk of infections.

One reaction in particular that zinc helps to initiate is glycolysis – or the breakdown of sugar molecules. This allows your body to digest and process the sugar; once broken down the sugar can be transported to your cells for energy, which means zinc is essential for blood sugar regulation.

Your body also needs zinc for insulin production and inflammation control.

Iron

Iron helps transport oxygen throughout your body and plays a role in enzymes that support metabolism and glucose regulation.

Low iron levels, often caused by chronic inflammation or poor diet, can lead to anemia. Anemia causes fatigue and can reduce your ability to stay active—making blood sugar harder to control.

Chronic inflammation in diabetes raises hepcidin, a hormone that blocks iron absorption and storage. Long-term metformin use may also contribute to low iron.

But too much iron (iron overload) is also harmful and can worsen insulin resistance, so balancing iron levels is key.

Include iron-rich foods like red meat, spinach and small portions of lentils, and pair them with vitamin C for better absorption.

Why Are Deficiencies So Common in Type 2 Diabetes?

There are a combination of factors that cause nutrient deficiencies in diabetes.

First, many people eat a poor quality diet high in empty carbs, or have lack of awareness about nutrient-rich foods.

Secondly, certain medications—like metformin—can interfere with nutrient absorption, contributing to deficiencies.

Then things like chronic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction in type 2 diabetes may also play a role in reducing the body’s ability to absorb or retain essential nutrients.

But, one of the most important factors is: in a state of high blood sugar and high insulin levels, the body’s cells simply have poor nutrient uptake and increased nutrient losses, which leads to deficiency in these essential micronutrients.

The best course of action is to lower blood sugar and A1c by focusing on NUTRITION!

The Hidden Dangers of Ignoring Nutrient Deficiencies

If left unaddressed, these deficiencies can lead to serious health complications.

For example, low magnesium and vitamin D levels can worsen insulin resistance, creating a vicious cycle of poor blood sugar control.

Vitamin B12 deficiency may result in long-term nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy), causing pain and affecting mobility and quality of life.

Zinc deficiency, meanwhile, can increase the risk of infections and slow wound healing, putting people at higher risk for foot ulcers and related complications.

Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, reducing energy levels and physical endurance, which can further complicate blood sugar management.

Nutrient deficiencies can lead to an increased dependency on medication, when more medication may not be necessary.

What You Can Do To Address Diabetes Nutrient Deficiencies

To identify and address potential deficiencies, consider the following steps:

• Get tested: Regular screenings for nutrient levels, especially if you’re on long-term medications like metformin, can help you spot deficiencies early. MEMBERS: Login to the members site for more detailed info on the tests to request at your next doctor visit.
• Focus on nutrient-rich foods: Include foods rich in magnesium (leafy greens, nuts, seeds), vitamin D (fatty fish, eggs, mushrooms), and vitamin B12 (meat, eggs, dairy) in your diet. MEMBERS: Login to the members site for detailed food lists.
• Monitor absorption issues: Certain medications or digestive issues can affect nutrient absorption, so it’s important to discuss these factors with your doctor or nutritionist.
• Consider supplements: If food alone isn’t enough, consider nutritional supplements to fill in the gaps.
• Join Us As A Member: We show you exactly what to eat to lower blood sugar, rebalance your metabolism and correct these micronutrient deficiencies naturally.

Multiple Micronutrient Deficiencies in Diabetes

This study confirms what previous research has suggested but offers critical updates.

We’ve known for some time that nutrient deficiencies—particularly magnesium and vitamin D—are common in type 2 diabetes, but this study highlights the importance of viewing deficiencies as part of a broader metabolic dysfunction rather than isolated issues.

What’s new in this study is the emphasis on multiple deficiencies occurring simultaneously and their combined impact on metabolic health.

The findings related to vitamin B12 deficiency, linked to long-term metformin use, are consistent with previous research.

However, this study adds depth by suggesting that monitoring for these deficiencies should be an integral part of diabetes management, not an afterthought. This is particularly important for those with prediabetes as well, which was noted in the 2025 Diabetes Guidelines.

This new study also raises awareness about zinc, a nutrient less commonly discussed in diabetes care but essential for immune function and healing—both critical in preventing complications like diabetic foot ulcers.

The real takeaway here is the importance of comprehensive nutritional assessments in managing type 2 diabetes.

And even more important: people with type 2 diabetes need to focus on NUTRITION as a priority – something we’ve been helping people do for over a decade!

Addressing nutrient deficiencies early is very important for better blood sugar control, reduced complications, and improved long-term outcomes.

Conclusion

Micronutrient deficiencies are a silent but critical factor in treating type 2 diabetes, with magnesium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron and zinc being of particular concern.

By paying attention to these hidden gaps in your nutrition, you can support better blood sugar control, reduce complications, and feel more energized day to day.

Take action and start a quality nutrition plan to ensure you’re getting what your body needs to thrive.