Magnesium for Managing Type 2 Diabetes
Magnesium is considered as one of the minerals that is vital for the body. Foods that are high in magnesium include nuts, green leafy vegetables, and a number of whole-grain products. Magnesium supplements that are present in the market today are available in many forms, such as tablets, liquids, or capsules.
Magnesium has several important benefits for the body; it strengthens the muscles of the heart, nerve fibers, muscle tissues, bones, and it also helps in managing the levels of glucose in the blood. Decreased levels of magnesium are usually seen in people who have acquired diabetes. Researchers have examined the relationship of magnesium and diabetes for decades; however, until now, it is not yet fully understood even today.
Summary of the Research Findings
There has been a number of studies on magnesium and type 2 diabetes, and most of them are very small in size or limited on time, and mainly focused on the capability of magnesium in lowering blood-glucose levels. The outcomes of these studies are mixed, and most of the finding suggest that magnesium don’t affect blood-glucose levels. However, a few research had indicated that reduced magnesium levels could make glucose control even worse in type 2 diabetes (it may lead to insulin resistance) and gives rise to several complications of the disease. An evidence exists, which suggest that supplementation of magnesium might be helpful to counter insulin resistance. Several research are needed to determine whether consuming magnesium rich-foods has any function or benefit as a CAM therapy for people who have acquired type 2 diabetes.
Side Effects and Other Risks
Daily intake of Magnesium supplements in low doses are considered safe for adults. However, High doses could be dangerous because it may cause problems such as vomiting, diarrhea, decrease in appetite, difficulty breathing, muscle weakness, hypo-tension, abnormal heart rate, and even confusion. Magnesium may react with certain drugs, including a number of antibiotics, drugs for osteoporosis, some high blood pressure medications (calcium-channel channel blockers), diuretics, and muscle relaxants.
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