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Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Can A Mineral Deficiency Cause Diabetes?

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.

Weight is a factor in type 2 diabetes in children. Overweight children also showed a higher magnesium deficiency rate than children in the normal weight range. Magnesium deficiency is seen in 55 percent of overweight children, and it is reported that over 75 percent of our population is deficient in this vital nutrient.

Studies conducted at the University of Virginia measured serum magnesium, insulin sensitivity, and magnesium intake through diet in children with type 2 diabetes. This study showed a correlation between insulin resistance and magnesium deficiency in children.

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. - 17268

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