Study: Magnesium Supplements Linked To Improved Health For Diabetics

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The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is on the increase worldwide. Statistics from the USA show that in 2010, 26.6 million (11.7%) of the adult population (individuals over 20 years of age) had diabetes. It is predicted that by the year 2050 the diagnosis of diabetes will increase from 1  in 10 to between 1 in 5 and 1 in 3 adults. While these statistics include type 1 diabetes mellitus, type 2 diabetes accounts for 95% of diagnosed diabetes in adults.

Currently diabetes is a major cause of heart disease and strokes and is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States.  Amongst other factors, diet is a key contributor to the development and progression of Type 2 diabetes.  However, studies have shown that with correct the diet strategy, the symptoms of type 2 diabetes can be greatly improved. These include insulin sensitivity, blood sugar levels, glycemic control, inflammatory markers, oxidative stress and lipid profiles. The dietary mineral, magnesium is of particular interest because of it’s function in the metabolism of carbohydrates. Previous studies have shown that magnesium’s ability to regulate insulin secretion and/or action is why low levels of magnesium are commonly considered a risk factor in the development of type 2 diabetes.

Because magnesium has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose control, these latest studies sought to examine the relationship between dietary magnesium intake from food and food combined with supplements and diabetes and other related health factors in adults. Data for the study was taken from the National Health and Nutrition Examination survey from 2001-2010. Usual intakes from foods alone and from foods plus dietary supplements were determined using the methods from the National Cancer Institute.

They compared people with adequate levels of magnesium to those who were magnesium deficient. Those with higher magnesium intake tended to have smaller waist circumferences, lower blood pressures and cholesterol levels.

Quoted From the report:

Higher dietary intake of magnesium from food plus supplements was associated with significantly reduced odds ratios for elevated glycohemoglobin, metabolic syndrome, obesity, overweight or obesity, elevated waist circumference, elevated systolic blood pressure, reduced HDL and elevated C-reactive protein. Thus, there is a beneficial relationship between dietary magnesium intake and diabetes-related physiological outcomes in U.S. adults.”

Magnesium is an essential nutrient in our diets, playing an important role in over 300 metabolic functions in our bodies. A deficiency in magnesium can contribute to a number of symptoms including headaches, lack of energy, muscle pain (cramps), insomnia and cardiac disorders. Magnesium deficiency can be from a result of inadequate intake, inefficient absorption or excessive excretion. The best dietary sources of magnesium are legumes, seeds, nuts, whole grains and green leafy vegetables. A large percentage of Americans consume low magnesium diets because their diets are high in refined foods, meat and dairy products. Magnesium supplements are available in tablet/capsule form as well as in crystal form (to dissolve in the bath) or gel for topical application. It is advisable to consult with a qualified health practitioner to be advised on the best dosage recommendations for your individual needs.

“TheHealthyMom”  researches and writes for a health and nutrition website Detox For Life . Her passion is to make research available to those who are looking to improve their well-being and revolutionize their health through better nutrition and alternative medicines.

References

http://www.jscimedcentral.com/Nutrition/nutrition-2-1038.pdf

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002423.htm

http://www.ancient-minerals.com/magnesium-deficiency/need-more/

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-2-diabetes/basics/symptoms/con-20031902

thehealthymom