Over the past several years we have seen an increase in obesity in children. Along with this weight issue we have also seen an increase in the number of cases of juvenile, or type 2 diabetes. Studies have tied this insulin related dilemma with a deficiency of the electrolyte magnesium.

Research studies say yes, that magnesium deficiency is associated with insulin resistance. What exactly is insulin resistance? It is the blocking of the insulin protein, produced by the pancreas, in converting glucose into energy.

Weight is a factor in type 2 diabetes in children. Overweight children also showed a higher magnesium deficiency rate than children in the normal weight range. Magnesium deficiency is seen in 55 percent of overweight children, and it is reported that over 75 percent of our population is deficient in this vital nutrient.

In 2005 a study was conducted at the University of Virginia. This study looked at the magnesium level in the body as well as insulin sensitivity in children. The magnesium intake through a dietary question was reviewed as well. This study showed a connection between magnesium deficiency and insulin resistance in children.

Our obesity or excess fat does not allow us to use our magnesium to properly break down carbohydrates. Most western diets are low in magnesium and other vital nutrients. Dr. Mark Sircus, as well as others, have stated that magnesium can be absorbed through the skin, or transdermally. One of the side affects of applying transdermal magnesium is a more relaxed feeling, and improved sleep.

The aforementioned study was published in Diabetes Care 28:1175-1181, 2005. We thank Diabetes Care and the University of Virginia for sharing this promising study, “Magnesium Deficiency is Associated with Insulin Resistance in Obese Children”.

About the Author:

magnesium is one of the vital electrolytes, key to our energy and peak performance. Learn more about diabetes and magnesium deficiency at http://magnesium.DixieRetreat.com

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Obesity Diabetes and Magnesium