Proper nutrition is important for everyone, but for people with diabetes, it is vital.  A doctor will often recommend that someone with this condition consult a dietitian to develop a meal plan that will help regulate blood sugar levels and provide all the nutrients the body needs.

Most experts, including the Canadian Diabetes Association, recommend that the best way of getting all the necessary vitamins and minerals is from a well-balanced diet.  However, recent research points to a possible role for certain vitamins in diabetes care.

Some studies have shown that the antioxidant vitamins (A, C, and E) may help prevent diabetic complications, especially eye and nerve damage.  Another study showed that vitamins C and E, when taken in combination with zinc and magnesium, may reduce high blood pressure in people with diabetes.

Vitamin B9 (folic acid) may also have a role to play in diabetes care.  This vitamin is believed to reduce homocysteine levels in the body.  High homocysteine levels can cause heart disease and blood vessel problems. People with diabetes may be more likely to have high homocysteine levels.

If you think vitamins may help you control your diabetes, discuss this with your doctor or Sobeys Pharmacist.