The problem of magnesium deficiency and metabolic syndrome

Abstract

The epidemic of obesity, insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus currently observed in developed countries requires new approaches to the prevention and treatment. Besides the hypercaloric diet micronutrient deficiency is involved in the development of metabolic disorders. Recent diet changes due to the agrarian and food technological revolutions has led to the emergence of new micronutrient deficiencies, primarily magnesium. While its hypotonic action is well studied, magnesium’s positive effects on metabolism, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects are currently the focus of researchers’ attention. The magnesium preparations reduce insulin resistance, improves anthropometric and laboratory markers of the metabolic syndrome. Detection of magnesium deficiency, including subclinical one, and correction of magnesium status are important tasks for the prevention and complex therapy of the metabolic syndrome. Given the higher bioavailability and lower incidence of side effects, organic magnesium salts are preferable.