Oral magnesium
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The Benefits of Oral Magnesium Supplementation: A Comprehensive Review
Oral Magnesium and Insulin Sensitivity in Type 2 Diabetes
Oral magnesium supplementation has shown promising results in improving insulin sensitivity and metabolic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes. A randomized double-blind controlled trial demonstrated that magnesium chloride (MgCl2) supplementation significantly increased serum magnesium levels and reduced the Homeostasis Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) index, fasting glucose levels, and HbA1c in type 2 diabetic subjects with decreased serum magnesium levels. Another study confirmed these findings, showing that magnesium supplementation improved insulin sensitivity and secretion in insulin-requiring type 2 diabetic patients, although it did not significantly affect glycemic control or plasma lipid concentrations.
Magnesium Supplementation in Metabolically Obese, Normal-Weight Individuals
In metabolically obese, normal-weight (MONW) individuals, oral magnesium supplementation has been found to improve the metabolic profile and blood pressure. A clinical trial revealed that magnesium supplementation significantly lowered systolic and diastolic blood pressures, HOMA-IR index, fasting glucose, and triglyceride levels compared to a placebo. These findings suggest that magnesium can be beneficial for individuals with metabolic abnormalities despite having a normal weight.
Effects on Prediabetes and Insulin Resistance
Magnesium supplementation also shows efficacy in individuals with prediabetes and hypomagnesemia. A study involving adults with prediabetes demonstrated that magnesium supplementation significantly reduced fasting and post-load glucose levels, HOMA-IR indices, and triglycerides, while increasing HDL cholesterol and serum magnesium levels. Additionally, another trial found that magnesium supplementation improved insulin sensitivity in non-diabetic subjects with insulin resistance, highlighting its potential in preventing the progression to diabetes.
Impact on Hypertension
The role of oral magnesium in managing hypertension has been explored extensively. A systematic review of 49 clinical trials categorized the effects of magnesium on different hypertensive groups. The review concluded that magnesium supplementation effectively lowers blood pressure in uncontrolled hypertensive patients and untreated hypertensives when the dose exceeds 600 mg/day. However, it showed no significant effect on controlled hypertensives and normotensive individuals.
Migraine Prophylaxis
Oral magnesium has also been studied for its potential in migraine prophylaxis. A multi-center, placebo-controlled study found that high-dose magnesium supplementation significantly reduced the frequency of migraine attacks, the number of days with migraine, and the consumption of symptomatic treatment drugs. A meta-analysis further supported these findings, indicating that oral magnesium alleviates the frequency and intensity of migraines.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Relief
Magnesium supplementation has been shown to relieve premenstrual mood changes. A double-blind, randomized study reported that magnesium significantly reduced the total Menstrual Distress Questionnaire score and the cluster "negative affect" in women with PMS. The study also noted an increase in magnesium levels in lymphocytes and polymorphonuclear cells, suggesting a physiological basis for the observed improvements.
Conclusion
Oral magnesium supplementation offers a range of health benefits, particularly in improving insulin sensitivity, metabolic control, and blood pressure in various populations. It also shows promise in migraine prophylaxis and alleviating premenstrual symptoms. These findings underscore the potential of magnesium as a therapeutic supplement for managing several health conditions.
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