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The Relationship Between Cognitive Function and Micronutrient Levels in Non-Geriatric Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Emre Cem Gokce1, Feray Akbas1, Tugce Acar2
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye.
Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders
|May 26, 2026
Summary
Cognitive dysfunction in type 2 diabetes is linked to lower levels of key micronutrients like iron, magnesium, and vitamin B12. Addressing these deficiencies may help protect and improve cognitive function in diabetic patients.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neurology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a growing global health concern with numerous complications.
- The impact of DM on cognitive functions is an area of increasing research interest.
- This study focuses on the relationship between cognitive performance and micronutrient status in non-geriatric individuals with type 2 DM (T2DM).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between cognitive function and micronutrient status in adults with T2DM.
- To identify specific micronutrients that may be linked to cognitive impairment in this population.
- To provide insights into potential interventions for preserving cognitive health in T2DM.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 120 patients with T2DM (aged 18-65) was conducted.
- Patients were categorized into case (cognitive impairment) and control (no cognitive impairment) groups based on Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores.
- Fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and various micronutrient levels (iron, zinc, magnesium, calcium, vitamins B12, D, etc.) were measured and compared.
Main Results:
- Cognitive dysfunction was observed in 50% of the T2DM patients.
- No significant differences in glucose control (FBG, HbA1c) or certain vitamins (A, C, E, folate) were found between groups.
- Significantly lower levels of albumin, iron, zinc, magnesium, calcium, vitamin B12, and vitamin D were found in patients with cognitive dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- A significant relationship exists between cognitive function and micronutrient status in non-geriatric patients with T2DM.
- Micronutrient deficiencies, particularly in iron, magnesium, calcium, and vitamin B12, are associated with cognitive impairment in T2DM.
- Screening for and correcting micronutrient deficiencies is crucial for managing and improving cognitive health in diabetes.
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