Sub-optimal folic acid increases the blood level of homocysteine, a toxic amino acid. High homocysteine is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Deficiencies may result in macrocytic anemia and gastrointestinal lesions. The most common cause is limited stomach acid production. The acid is needed to liberate the B12 so it can be absorbed.
People taking acid blocking drugs and strict vegetarians are also at risk.
May be effective for diabetic nerve damage. It is required in the production of fatty acids and the conversion of food into energy. Magnesium when low is associated with hypertension, cardiac arrhythmia, retinopathy, mineral homeostasis, dyslipidemia and poor glycemic control. Many experts believe that most Americans don't obtain an optimal amount of magnesium. However, diabetics may have an increased need for magnesium, in part due to increased magnesium loss in the urine.