The Role of Antioxidants in Managing Diabetes-Associated Anemia: Current Evidence and Future Directions

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia, which is often accompanied by complications such as anemia. Diabetes-associated anemia (DAA) arises due to multifactorial mechanisms, including oxidative stress, inflammation, erythropoietin deficiency, and iron metabolism dysregulation. Recent studies highlight the role of oxidative stress in exacerbating DAA, suggesting that antioxidants may offer a therapeutic advantage. This review explores the pathophysiology of DAA, emphasizing the impact of oxidative stress and the potential benefits of antioxidants in its management. We examine current evidence on the role of natural and synthetic antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, polyphenols, flavonoids, and coenzyme Q10, in mitigating DAA. Furthermore, we discuss potential clinical applications and future research directions in antioxidant therapy for diabetic anemia. The findings suggest that targeted antioxidant strategies could serve as adjunctive therapies in diabetes management, improving erythropoiesis and overall patient outcomes. Keywords: Diabetes-associated anemia, oxidative stress, antioxidants, erythropoiesis, polyphenols