Risks of nutritional deficiencies in young adult type 1 diabetic (T1D) women

Abstract

Although nutrition plays a crucial role in the treatment of T1D, there are few studies on the nutritional status. This study aimed to evaluate a target group at risk of nutritional deficiencies. Women with well‐controlled T1D and without renal complications (n=22) and healthy controls (n=27), aged 30‐40 yr‐old, were rigorously selected, having normal body weight and being not pregnant nor vegetarian, among other selection criteria. The two groups were comparable in many aspects. T1D, diagnosed since 21 yrs in average, was monitored by HbA1c level. Serum transferrin (P<0.02) and IGF‐1 concentrations (P<0.001) were reduced in the T1D group. There was no significant difference for albumin. Serum iron concentration was also reduced (P<0.03), although body stores (ferritin) were not affected. Contrarily to other studies, serum Mg and plasma pyridoxal phosphate (PLP, vitamin B6 coenzyme) were not reduced, although alkaline phosphatase, which regulates the concentration of this vitamin, was increased (P<0.01). Plasma PLP was below reference value. Erythrocyte folate was greater (P<0.03) in TID group due to a greater number of subjects taking supplements and more control subjects with values in the low range. This study evidenced T1D‐induced metabolic changes in regard to protein and iron status. It also showed a risk of deficiency for vitamin B6.