Authors: Ava V. Simpson.
The prevalence of diabetes for all age-groups worldwide was estimated to be 2.8% in 2000 and 4.4% in 2030. The total number of people with diabetes is projected to rise from 171 million in 2000 to 366 million in 2030. This increase in prevalence is likely to increase the number of persons with kidney disease and other related comorbidities as compelling evidence support a direct relationship. The heavy burden of these diseases on health care budgets, the debilitating effects on affected individuals and their families force healthcare providers to examine different ways to help with managing these illnesses. Intensive management of blood glucose levels is predicted
to be beneficial to patients to reduce associated morbidities and to delay or prevent progression of secondary complications. Managing carbohydrate intakes and enforcing dietary restrictions have become the mainstay of education for person living with diabetes. However compelling evidence suggests that several micronutrients are important in achieving blood sugar control. Could we be overlooking the therapeutic importance of micronutrient balance? This review will explore dietary intake data and implications for five micronutrients where deficiencies may play a role in poor blood sugar control.