Zinc magnesium
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The Role of Zinc and Magnesium in Health and Disease
Importance of Zinc and Magnesium in Physical Activity
Zinc and magnesium are essential minerals required for maintaining health and optimal physiological function, especially in physically active individuals. Adequate intake of these micronutrients is crucial for supporting increased energy expenditure and work performance. Most physically active individuals consume sufficient amounts of magnesium and zinc to meet population standards, although women often consume less than recommended due to lower overall food intake . Inadequate intake of these minerals is particularly noted in activities requiring body weight restriction. Supplemental magnesium and zinc have been shown to improve strength and muscle metabolism, although the exact mechanisms—whether due to nutritional status or pharmacologic effects—remain unclear .
Combined Supplementation in Chronic Diseases
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Coronary Heart Disease
Magnesium and zinc supplementation has shown significant benefits in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and coronary heart disease (CHD). A study demonstrated that a 12-week regimen of magnesium oxide and zinc sulfate significantly decreased fasting plasma glucose, insulin levels, and C-reactive protein (CRP), while increasing HDL-cholesterol, total nitrite, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) . These findings suggest that magnesium and zinc co-supplementation can improve glycemic control and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in these patients .
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
In women with PCOS, magnesium-zinc-calcium-vitamin D co-supplementation has been found to improve hormonal profiles and reduce biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress. A 12-week intervention resulted in significant reductions in hirsutism, serum high-sensitivity CRP, and plasma malondialdehyde, along with an increase in plasma TAC concentrations . These results indicate that such co-supplementation can be beneficial for managing PCOS symptoms and associated metabolic disturbances .
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM)
For women with gestational diabetes, magnesium-zinc-calcium-vitamin D co-supplementation has shown promising results in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. A 6-week study reported significant reductions in serum high-sensitivity CRP and plasma malondialdehyde, along with an increase in TAC levels. Additionally, there was a trend towards lower newborn weight and reduced rates of macrosomia . These findings highlight the potential of this co-supplementation in improving pregnancy outcomes in GDM .
Impact on Bone Health and Mineral Metabolism
A study on postmenopausal women revealed that a moderately high intake of zinc can depress magnesium balance and alter indices of bone turnover. High zinc intake increased magnesium excretion, resulting in decreased magnesium balance, and affected markers such as plasma osteocalcin and urinary N-telopeptides . This suggests that while zinc is essential, its intake must be balanced with magnesium to avoid adverse effects on bone health and mineral metabolism .
Biomedical Applications of Zinc and Magnesium Alloys
Orthopedic Implants
Magnesium alloys, particularly those combined with zinc and gadolinium, have shown promise as materials for orthopedic implants due to their excellent strength, toughness, and biocompatibility. These alloys degrade at a controlled rate, maintaining structural integrity while promoting bone integration and avoiding cytotoxicity . This makes them suitable for temporary implants that support bone healing and then gradually degrade, eliminating the need for surgical removal .
Cardiovascular Applications
Magnesium and zinc alloys are also being explored for cardiovascular applications, such as biodegradable stents and bioresorbable scaffolds. These materials offer natural degradability and biocompatibility, making them ideal for temporary implants that support tissue formation and then safely degrade . However, improving their corrosion resistance remains a challenge to ensure they maintain mechanical integrity long enough to be effective .
Conclusion
Zinc and magnesium play crucial roles in various physiological functions and disease management. Their combined supplementation has shown significant benefits in chronic diseases like T2DM, CHD, and PCOS, as well as in improving pregnancy outcomes in GDM. Additionally, their application in biomedical implants offers promising advancements in both orthopedic and cardiovascular fields. However, the balance of these minerals is essential to avoid adverse effects, particularly in bone health and mineral metabolism. Further research is needed to optimize their use in both dietary supplementation and medical applications.
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