Magnesium, an essential mineral, plays a role in both insulin-dependent diabetes and non-insulin dependent diabetes, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. The precise relationship between magnesium and diabetes is not clear, and large-scale, well-controlled studies will be necessary to determine the mechanism by which this mineral affects sugar tolerance in diabetic patients.
Functions of Magnesium
Magnesium is necessary to sustain life, but your body cannot synthesize it on its own. That's why you must obtain it through the foods you eat each day. Your body holds roughly 25 g of this mineral, which contributes to bone structure, muscle function and the production of energy, DNA, proteins and enzymes. It also affects cell migration, which may mean it is important in the healing of wounds.
Magnesium Levels and Diabetes
People with type 2 diabetes frequently have low serum magnesium levels, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. In a study involving more than 2,000 participants, those who had higher levels of magnesium consumption had less likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. The Linus Pauling Institute adds that low magnesium levels in diabetics may be due to loss of the mineral through urinary excretion. Magnesium deficiency can increase your resistance to insulin, further compounding diabetes. It is unclear if magnesium supplementation influences diabetes, but a magnesium deficiency appears to exacerbate it. If you are diabetic and suspect you have a magnesium deficiency, consult your doctor. Correcting your deficiency may help.
Sources of Magnesium
Magnesium is present in a wide variety of foods. Legumes, whole grains, nuts molasses, bananas and baked potatoes -- with the skin on -- are all sources of magnesium, according to UMMC. Chocolate lovers will be pleased to note that their favorite confection is also a rich source of magnesium. Tofu, a vegetarian staple, is also a good source.
Dosage
There is no established dosage of magnesium that is specific to diabetics, but there are recommended dietary allowances for magnesium that correspond to specific ages and genders. For males ages 19 through 30, the RDA for magnesium is 410 mg per day. For males who are age 31 and older, the RDA for magnesium is 420 mg daily. For women ages 19 through 30, the RDA for magnesium is 310 mg per day. For women who are age 30 and older, the RDA is 320 mg per day. Pregnancy and lactation increase your need for magnesium to even greater dosages. Consult your doctor to determine what dosage is right for you.
