Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Individuals with Diabetic Neuropathy

Abstract

Vitamin B12 is a water soluble vitamin known for its many deficiency symptoms. New studies on demographics and serum vitamin B12 levels conflict with past results. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationships among weight status, serum vitamin B12 levels, and vitamin B12 dietary intake in individuals with Type 2 diabetes and diabetic neuropathy. A total of 30 participants were recruited from the University of Kansas Medical Center and the University of Utah. In a randomized exercise intervention trial (Activity for Diabetic Polyneuropathy: ADAPT Study) height, weight, Body Mass Index, medication, supplement use, age, serum vitamin B12 values and dietary intake via 3 day food records were collected at baseline visits. The 3 day food records were entered into a nutrition software program (NDSR) to determine sources and amount of vitamin B12 consumed for a 3 day average. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the participants. Differences between metformin vs. non-metformin users were compared using ANOVA. Regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between serum vitamin B12 and the following variables: weight, age, vitamin B12 supplement use and oral B12 consumption. A pairwise correlation matrix linked each independent variable in a set point in time. The mean total vitamin B12 consumption was 4.3 µg per day. The use of the drug metformin was not found to be statistically significantly related to serum B12 levels. No relationships were found between serum vitamin B12 and age, BMI, or obesity status. The use of vitamin B12 supplements was positively related to serum vitamin B12 levels, independent of dosage (p = .031). These findings are encouraging for those who are at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency. The study also does not find a negative correlation between age and serum B12 levels, which could indicate that screening for deficiency should start at a younger age. Future studies should look at age and its relationship to serum B12 levels.