Role of Folic Acid in Diabetes

Folic acid, the B vitamin associated with the production of healthy new cells in the body, is also known to play its part in helping patients with diabetes. Folic acid deficiency may put them at risk of developing several diseases while its ample supply can help keep things under control. Different studies have been conducted on how folic acid can help the diabetics. All these studies have revealed some benefits. Let’s take a look at the role of folic acid in diabetes.

Effects on Post-Menopausal Women with Type 2 Diabetes

A study was conducted in Korea in which 25 post-menopausal women having Type 2 diabetes were given 800 mg of folic acid continuously for 8 weeks. The effects of this folic acid supplementation were:

· A significant increase in the levels of folate

· The decrease in the levels of homocysteine

· The decrease in the levels of LDL which is known as the bad cholesterol

· Improvement in the LDL to HDL ratio and improvement in the total cholesterol ratio to HDL

Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases

As mentioned earlier, the use of folic acid helps in the reducing homocysteine levels and this helps in lowering the risks of developing any cardiovascular diseases in patients suffering from Type 2 diabetes.

The total homocysteine level is previously known to be in connection with cardiovascular risks and even mortality in the diabetics. In addition, it’s linked with risk of microalbuminuria, diabetic neuropathy, foot ulceration and cognitive deterioration.

The total homocysteine level is, however, lowered by the use of folic acid and it can be helpful for patients suffering from coronary artery disease in improving endothelial function.

The meta-analysis conducted on 4 studies revealed that the hyperhomocysteinemia was linked to increased risk of mortality in patients who had diabetes.

A couple of random-effects models, however, revealed that the use of folic acid supplements lowered ‘mean total homocysteine level’ in diabetes patients by 3.52 µmol/L greater than what was achieved with placebo. In addition, there was a decrease in mean glycated hemoglobin level which was recorded 0.37 µmol/L greater in diabetic patients on the supplementation compared to those who were taking a placebo.

According to the researchers, who referred to an old meta-analysis, lowering the total homocysteine levels by only 3 µmol/L can reduce the risk of ischemic heart disease, stroke, and deep vein thrombosis by 16%, 24%, and 25% respectively.

Birth Defects Are Common in Babies Born To Mothers Having Preexisting Diabetes Due To Folic Acid Deficiency

A study suggests that babies who were born to the mothers having preexisting diabetes and folic acid deficiency often have an increased risk of developing different birth defects. However, there is low risk involved when such mothers take folic acid prior to and in early pregnancy. Even preexisting diabetes can be neutralized with proper supplementation.

To conclude, folic acid has a role to play in diabetes. The intake of folic acid can help avoid many conditions that diabetics have to face due to folic acid deficiency.

Sources:

http://ezinearticles.com/?Type-2-Diabetes---Does-Folic-Acid-Help-Prevent-Heart-Disease?&id=9765636

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20120702/Folic-acid-e28098may-benefit-diabeticse28099.aspx