Magnesium Important for Healthy Blood Sugar Metabolism

Magnesium supports optimal insulin and blood sugar metabolism, according to a new study. Magnesium is a mineral required for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, and plays a role in immune function, blood sugar metabolism, energy metabolism, protein synthesis, nerve and muscle function and bone integrity.

The subjects included 180 postmenopausal women with suboptimal blood sugar metabolism. The subjects were assessed for levels of fasting glucose and insulin; glucose and insulin levels after glucose ingestion; serum C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammatory response; uric acid, which is associated with inflammatory response and suboptimal cardiovascular health; serum lipids; and serum magnesium. The women were also evaluated for body mass index (BMI), and waist-to-hip ratio. Insulin efficiency was calculated using the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA).

The study showed that CRP, waist-to-hip ratio, serum triglycerides and magnesium were predictors of insulin efficiency. More specifically, a CRP of greater than 3.0 mg/l was associated with a 2.8-fold increased likelihood of having an increased HOMA-IR score, meaning decreased insulin efficiency. Imbalanced triglycerides were associated with a 5.26-fold increase in the likelihood of an increased HOMA-IR score, increased waist-to-hip ratio was associated with 3.02-fold increased likelihood, and elevated uric acid was associated with 1.97-fold increased likelihood of an increased HOMA-IR score. Furthermore, lower serum magnesium was linked to a higher HOMA-IR score, indicating magnesium supports insulin efficiency.

The researchers concluded that in postmenopausal women, less-than-optimal insulin efficiency is associated with inflammatory responses, serum triglycerides, waist-to-hip ratio, and lower serum magnesium levels.

Reference:

Liu ZM, Ho SC. The association of serum C-reactive protein, uric acid and magnesium with insulin resistance in Chinese postmenopausal women with prediabetes or early untreated diabetes. Maturitas. 2011 Aug 5. Published Online Ahead of Print.