Diabetes-induced Multiorgan Damage: Can Magnesium Delay the process?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Diabetes mellitus is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite the widespread use of oral antidiabetic agents and insulin therapy, the global incidence of diabetes continues to rise at an alarming rate. Human studies have demonstrated an association between magnesium deficiency and both insulin resistance and impaired glucose tolerance. This review, which is based on information collected from human and experimental studies from existing databases, describes the role of magnesium in glucose metabolism and explains how magnesium deficiency contributes to the onset, progression, and complications of diabetes mellitus while highlighting the therapeutic potential of magnesium supplementation.

RECENT FINDINGS: Magnesium is important for many enzyme functions, including those needed for insulin synthesis, release, and action. Clinical studies have shown that magnesium helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. Furthermore, studies have shown that adequate magnesium status is associated with a reduced risk of diabetes-related complications. Lifestyle modifications, particularly a balanced diet that ensures adequate magnesium intake, have been shown to provide additional benefits for glycemic control. Emerging evidence suggests that magnesium may be a beneficial adjuvant therapy for managing diabetes-related complications.