Abstract: Micronutrients, or essential trace elements and minerals, are critical to maintaining good health. These are involved in maintaining enzyme function, regulating communication between cells, and maintaining redox and immune homeostasis. In the context of Diabetes Mellitus (DM)— including both Type 1 (T1DM) and Type 2 (T2DM) diabetes—micronutrient imbalances have emerged as factors in the development of metabolic disturbances and complications associated with diabetes. Here, we assess the importance of micronutrients in the development and treatment of diabetes mellitus, focusing on their contributions to insulin function, glucose metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammation. It also considers the clinical benefits of micronutrient supplementation in a nutritional approach to diabetes management. Methods: A literature review was conducted, including peer-reviewed articles, guidelines, randomised controlled trials, and experimental papers, sourced from biomedical databases. Preference was given to studies examining the relationships among micronutrient status, diabetes control, insulin sensitivity, and the development of complications. Results: The findings show that the status of key micronutrients - such as magnesium, zinc, chromium, and selenium - affects the regulation of insulin signalling, glucose metabolism, and oxidative stress. For T1DM, nutritional factors during early development may affect autoimmune processes, whereas for T2DM, micronutrient levels are strongly associated with lifestyle, inflammation, and metabolic risk factors. Key micronutrients also seem to influence the onset and severity of diabetes complications such as nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, and cardiovascular disease. Discussion: These findings demonstrate the mechanistic importance of micronutrients in processes and pathways relevant to diabetes. Although observational and intervention studies provide some evidence for a therapeutic role of targeted supplementation, the nature and size of the studies, along with variations in dosages and population characteristics, result in a lack of certainty about therapeutic recommendations. There is growing evidence for the implementation of biomarker-based supplementation and diet individualisation strategies, but multicentre studies are needed to confirm their effectiveness. Conclusion: Homeostasis of essential micronutrients is critical in the prevention, development, and treatment of diabetes mellitus. Regulation of essential trace elements and minerals provides an adjunct strategy to enhance glycaemic control and limit the risk of complications. Additional welldesigned intervention trials are needed to develop guidelines and identify therapeutic levels for micronutrients in people with diabetes.
Wal et al. (Tue,) studied this question.