A recent scientific study found that people with prediabetes who take vitamin D have a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Research indicates that vitamin D supplements may help reduce blood sugar levels in certain groups.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) annually issues care standards for diabetic patients, based on the latest scientific research and clinical trials, used by healthcare professionals to guide treatment decisions.

The care standards state that dietary supplements have not proven effective as an option to lower blood sugar levels or support diabetes management. However, some individuals may need to take multivitamins, according to the “diabetes” website.

Without an underlying deficiency, herbal or non-herbal supplements (such as vitamins or minerals) offer no benefits to people with diabetes. For certain groups, including pregnant or breastfeeding women, the elderly, vegetarians, and those on low-calorie or low-carb diets, multivitamin intake may be necessary.

There is no clinical evidence supporting the benefit of supplements in treating diabetes or its complications. The ADA care standards recommend supplements only if a nutritional deficiency is diagnosed; in such cases, consult your doctor. Common nutrient deficiencies among diabetic patients include iron, vitamins D and B12, magnesium, and calcium.

Many believe supplements contain the same vitamins and minerals as whole foods, but eating healthy foods is the best way to ensure effective vitamin absorption and use. Additionally, foods contain other compounds like phytochemicals that work together to provide health benefits. Phytochemicals are biologically active compounds found to help prevent cancer in humans.

Whole foods contain a mix of compounds that may help the body absorb and utilize nutrients. Eating a balanced healthy meal is better than taking multivitamins, as it is unclear if vitamins and minerals have the same effect when taken as supplements.

Supplements may cause unwanted or serious side effects, especially if they interact with diabetes medications. Some ingredients may enhance the effect of diabetes drugs, causing low blood sugar, while others may have the opposite effect, raising blood sugar. Therefore, always discuss any supplements you take or plan to take with your doctor.

Below are vitamins and minerals that diabetic patients can take to control their condition but should not take without consulting a doctor according to each case. It is also recommended to adhere to diabetes medications and a healthy balanced diet, as reported by “Healthline”:

Vitamin D plays an important role in regulating blood sugar levels and improving insulin function. Vitamin D deficiency is common among diabetic patients and may increase the risk of complications.

Vitamin B1 (thiamine) helps regulate carbohydrate metabolism and may be beneficial in treating diabetic neuropathy.

Vitamin B6 is involved in many metabolic processes and may help in some cases of diabetic neuropathy.

Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve health and may benefit diabetic patients taking metformin, which can cause B12 deficiency.

It acts as an antioxidant and helps protect cells from damage and may help reduce the risk of diabetes complications.

It plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels and improving insulin function and may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

It is an antioxidant and may help protect cells from damage.