Sweet Way to Stave Off Diabetes

Consuming ample magnesium via dietary sources may reduce a person’s risk of diabetes, especially for those who may be exhibiting metabolic impairments.  Adela Hruby, from Tufts University (Massachusetts, USA), and colleagues assessed 2,582 subjects, average age 54 years, enrolled in the Framingham Heart Study Offspring cohort, following them for 7 years to assess magnesium intake and risk of metabolic impairments including impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, and hyperinsulinemia.  Data revealed that among those experiencing such impairments, the subjects who consumed the most dietary magnesium were 32% less likely to develop diabetes, as compared to those with the lowest dietary magnesium.  The study authors conclude that: “Magnesium intake may be particularly beneficial in offsetting risk of developing diabetes among those at high risk.”