Over the past several years there has been an increase in obesity in children. Along with this weight issue there has also been an increase in the number of cases of juvenile, or type 2 diabetes. Studies have tied this insulin related dilemma with a deficiency of the electrolyte magnesium.

Studies show that there is a correlation between a low magnesium level and insulin resistance. Diabetes, or insulin resistance occurs when the cells cannot or will not absorb insulin, a protein produced in the pancreas, in the conversion of glucose into energy.

Article

Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Magnesium and Diabetes - Is There a Connection?

By Virginia Pipolini

Over the past several years we have seen an increase in obesity in children. Along with this weight issue we have also seen an increase in the number of cases of juvenile, or type 2 diabetes. Studies have tied this insulin related dilemma with a deficiency of the electrolyte magnesium.

Studies show that there is a correlation between a low magnesium level and insulin resistance. Diabetes, or insulin resistance occurs when the cells cannot or will not absorb insulin, a protein produced in the pancreas, in the conversion of glucose into energy.

The number of diabetes cases keeps rising. Diabetes is prevalent in over weight children, and there is a demonstrated connection between excess weight and magnesium deficiency.

Several physicians at the University of Virginia conducted a study of the connection between magnesium levels and insulin sensitivity in children. The serum magnesium level was measured as well as insulin resistance, and diets were reviewed to review magnesium intake. The results showed that insulin resistance and magnesium deficiencies were connected.

Our obesity or excess fat does not allow us to use our magnesium to properly break down carbohydrates. Most western diets are low in magnesium and other vital nutrients. Dr. Mark Sircus, as well as others, have stated that magnesium can be absorbed through the skin, or transdermally. One of the side affects of applying transdermal magnesium is a more relaxed feeling, and improved sleep.

The study conducted by the University of Virginia, Magnesium Deficiency is Associated with Insulin Resistance in Obese Children, was originally presented in Diabetes Care 28:1175-1181, 2005. The conclusion states that by improving the magnesium level in children we may be able to prevent the onset of juvenile type two diabetes.