Optimal - The Blog
October 30, 2025
Eating more doesn’t always mean getting enough nutrition. People living with obesity or type 2 diabetes often have low levels of key vitamins and minerals, even when consuming plenty of calories.
These “hidden deficiencies” can affect how well the body makes and uses insulin, the hormone that controls blood sugar.
Missing nutrients—especially vitamin D, chromium, biotin, thiamine, and vitamin C—may make it harder to manage blood sugar and increase the risk of developing diabetes-related complications.
Focusing on nutrient-rich foods and supplementing when necessary can help restore balance, improve energy, and support better glucose control.
Key Nutrients and Their Roles
Vitamin D
- Often low in people with obesity or diabetes.
- Helps the pancreas make insulin and keeps blood sugar balanced.
- Found in sunlight, fortified milk, eggs, and supplements.
Chromium
- Helps insulin work better so glucose moves into cells.
- Found in whole grains, meats, broccoli, and some supplements.
Biotin (Vitamin B7)
- Supports energy metabolism and insulin release.
- Found in eggs, nuts, and whole grains; sometimes taken with chromium for blood sugar support.
Thiamine (Vitamin B1)
- Needed to turn food into energy and keep blood vessels healthy.
- Often low in people who eat many refined carbs or have diabetes.
- Found in pork, beans, nuts, and whole grains.
Vitamin C
- Important antioxidant that protects cells from damage and supports healthy blood vessels.
- Often low in people with obesity; found in citrus, berries, and peppers.
Optimal Takeaways
- Hidden deficiencies are common in people with obesity or type 2 diabetes.
- Focus on nutrient-dense foods—fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, nuts, and whole grains.
- Vitamin D, chromium, and biotin help support healthy blood sugar control.
- Thiamine and vitamin C protect the heart and blood vessels from diabetic damage.
- Ask your doctor about testing for deficiencies and safe supplement options.
- Food quality matters as much as calories—choose real, whole foods whenever possible.
Want to Learn More?
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