In a nutshell
This study aimed to investigate the relationship between magnesium and the risk of heart disease in type 2 diabetes (T2D). The main finding of the study is that higher magnesium intake, a higher rate of magnesium removal from the body and higher blood magnesium levels were associated with lower rates of heart disease in T2D.
Some background
Heart disease (HD) is one of the most common complications of T2D. In the general population, it is thought that there is a link between a lack of magnesium (Mg) and HD. Foods that contain high levels of Mg are green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, salmon, tuna.
In T2D, there is a higher rate of low Mg (14-48%), compared to people without T2D (3-15%). However, it is unknown if increasing intake of Mg from the diet can lower rates of HD in T2D. It is also unknown if the rate at which Mg is removed from the body or if blood Mg levels have an impact of the rate of HD in T2D.
Methods & findings
This study included 450 patients with T2D. The amount of Mg consumed from each patients’ diet was calculated using a food questionnaire. Blood Mg levels were also measured and the rate of removal of Mg from the body was calculated by collecting the urine from each patient over a 24-hour period and measuring the Mg levels in it.
The rate of HD was 60% lower in patients with the highest Mg intake. There were also lower levels of HD in those with high Mg removal rates (37%) and high blood Mg levels (38%). For every 10 mg increase of Mg intake from foods, the frequency of HD was 25% lower.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that higher Mg intake, higher removal rates, and higher blood Mg levels are associated with lower frequency of HD in T2D.
The fine print
Some of these findings are not statistically significant, therefore the associations between higher removal rates and higher blood Mg levels cannot be concluded. Further studies are needed.
What’s next?
If you are worried about heart disease, you might speak to your doctor about incorporating high Mg foods into your diet.
Published By :
Nutrients
Date :
Mar 05, 2018
