DIABETES MELLITUS

ROLE OF MAGNESIUM

Abstract

O BJECTIVE: To study the effects of magnesium supplementation on electrolytes homeostasis, lipid
profile and metabolic control. DESIGN: Twenty six non-insulin dependant diabetic patients before and after
two months magnesium administration orally. SETTING Patients selected from OPD Medical Units, B. V.
Hospital, Bahawalpur. PERIOD: 1998 to 2000. SUBJECTS : 26 non-insulin dependant diabetic patients
of both sex, age-ranged 40-80 years. METHODOLOGY: Various biochemical kit methods used by
spectrophotometery, serum calcium and magnesium were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrophotometer.
RESULTS: Serum Mg and Ca levels were found to be lower significantly in diabetic patients as compared
to controls. But after magnesium supplementation, these levels were sufficiently increased. Clinically, lipids
levels and metabolic control (glucose and HbA1c) were improved significantly along with anti-diabetic
therapy. CONCLUSIONS: Magnesium supplements to the NIDDM patients have beneficial effects on
electrolyte metabolism as well as overall metabolic homeostasis.