Combined effect of high-dose vitamin A, vitamin E supplementation, and zinc on adult patients with diabetes: A randomized trial

Introduction: In type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hyperglycemia leads to oxidative insult. Vitamins A and E have antioxidant potentials and may help in managing diabetes. The combined effect of high-dose vitamin A plus E supplementation with and without zinc on T2DM, has never been examined. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the effect of high-dose vitamin A plus E supplementation (AE) versus high-dose vitamin A plus E with zinc (AEZ), on different diabetic parameters. Methods: Ninety-eight patients with T2DM were randomized to receive either: 50,000 IU vitamin A and 100 mg vitamin E (AE group, N=36), an equivalent dose of vitamin A and E combined with 25 mg zinc (AEZ group, N=35), or no supplements (control group, N=27) for three months. Results: Compared to the control, the AEZ group showed significant reductions in fasting blood glucose, 2 hours postprandial blood glucose, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) with significant increases in homeostasis model assessment of beta-cell function and difference value of fasting insulin. Two hair loss cases were recorded in both treated groups. Conclusion: Although vitamin A needs dose moderation, these results suggest that, high-dose vitamin A plus E supplementation combined with zinc may improve glycemic control, b-cell function, and insulin secretion in adults with T2DM. (C) 2021 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Cairo University.

Automated summary

The study compared the effects of high-dose vitamin A plus E and high-dose vitamin A plus E with zinc on patients with T2DM. Results showed that the group receiving high-dose vitamin A plus E with zinc had significant improvements in blood glucose control, beta-cell function, and insulin secretion.