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Magnesium & Insulin Resistance

Exposure to increased levels of insulin occurs in a condition known as insulin resistance. This increased exposure raises the risk of serious health disorders, such as heart disease, stroke and type-2 diabetes. Supplementing with magnesium, a mineral responsible for many key functions in the body, has documented benefits in improving the condition.

  1. Identification

    • Insulin resistance occurs when the pancreas produces enough insulin, a hormone responsible for transporting blood sugar, but the cells in the body become resistant to it. To fight the resistance, the body produces huge amounts of insulin to send sugar into the bloodstream.

    Significance

    • High levels of insulin and blood sugar have been linked to low levels of plasma magnesium in several different studies. Dr. Andrew Weil, founder of the Arizona Center of Intergrative Medicine, recommends magnesium supplementation in a dosage of 100 to 400 milligrams per day to improve insulin resistance.

    Insulin Resistance in Children

    • A May 2005 study published in the "Diabetes Care Journal" reported that magnesium deficiency correlated with insulin resistance in children, and it concluded that the risk for developing type 2 diabetes began in childhood.

    Sources

    • Eating ample amounts green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains in a diet--and avoiding processed foods--will help a person meet daily requirements for magnesium.

    Considerations

    • Alcohol and caffeine reduce magnesium levels in the body. Consuming them moderately--or avoiding them altogether--will improve insulin resistance.

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