Researchers at Northwestern University in 2006 found a link between magnesium and metabolic syndrome. In their report, published in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association, they discussed their study of over 5,000 people. It was found that dietary supplements of magnesium reduced the rate of development of metabolic syndrome, and that with increased amounts of magnesium, metabolic syndrome risk decreased even more. In 2008, a review of various studies about this subject concluded that the strongest benefit was from magnesium contained in food, rather than from supplements (http://ncp.sagepub.com/content/23/2/142.abstract). In addition to reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome, magnesium is also good “brain food” – some of the conditions associated with magnesium deficiency are anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorder and problems with cognitive function.
What Is Metabolic Syndrome?
In understanding the importance of magnesium, metabolic syndrome must be explained. It is a group of risk factors that may be a strong indication of heart disease or diabetes. This includes high blood pressure and triglyceride levels, high fasting glucose level indicating insulin resistance and glucose intolerance, low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL – known as “the good cholesterol), and excessive abdominal fat, often described as having an “apple shape.” Metabolic syndrome is very often a warning sign for the beginnings of full-blown diabetes. There is such a strong relationship between magnesium, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes, that Jerry Nadler, M.D. of the University of Virginia School of Medicine said that “diabetes is a magnesium deficiency state.” To properly process blood sugar, there must be a correct balance of magnesium and calcium in the cells. If there is too much calcium and not enough magnesium, insulin resistance will occur, leading to excess blood sugar levels, and a high risk of metabolic syndrome and subsequent diabetes. In addition to the deficiency, one symptom of diabetes is frequent urination, which will also deplete the body of important minerals, including magnesium. You should consult your doctor to see if you require a supplement to maintain the necessary magnesium levels.
The Role of Diet in Metabolic Syndrome Treatment
What’s important to remember when considering the link between magnesium and metabolic syndrome is that this important nutrient is only part of a healthy diet that will protect you from various diseases, not just diabetes. Magnesium is not only found in dietary supplements, but in many foods, such as spinach and other green leafy vegetables, whole grain cereals, almonds and cashews, avocados, bananas and raisins, kidney and pinto beans, black-eyed peas, and long-grain brown rice. These foods are also excellent sources for many other important vitamins and nutrients. Good food, regular exercise and healthy lifestyle choices all help to protect the body to keep it free of disease.
