Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin)
Vitamin B12 deficiency may lead to degeneration of the spinal cord and nervous system. The consumption of Vitamin B12 supplement is beneficial for preventing diabetic neuropathy (deterioration of nerves).
Vitamin B12 can be found in such foods as: liver, lean meat, egg yolk and dairy products.
Folic acid
A lack of folic acid in the organism can cause anaemia and deterioration of nerves and the eye (neuropathy and retinopathy).
The sources of folic acids are: liver and other organ meats, yeast, green leafy vegetables, like broccoli and spinach, and fortified bread and maize meal.
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
Vitamin C helps to heal wounds which is crucial for diabetes. People suffering from this disease often suffer from problems with wounds that simply won't heal.
Diabetics that consume Vitamin C can improve defective vasodilation (expansion of the blood vessels) and normalise the function of blood vessels if they have concomitant coronary artery disease.
Also Vitamin C is known as a powerful antioxidant.
Foods containing Vitamin C: citrus fruit (oranges, grapefruit, naartjies, lemons), strawberries, spanspek, guavas, berries, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, spinach, cabbage, green peppers, turnips.
Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol)
The characteristic feature of diabetes is the increased production of so-called 'free radicals'. They can damage the cells of the body and cause various degenerative conditions like heart disease and cancer. Also it is a good antioxidant that binds with free radicals and prevents tissue damage.
Vitamin E can be found in such food as: plant oils (olive, sunflower and other cooking and salad oils), wheat germ, green leafy vegetables, nuts and legumes.
| 
