Association of vitamin D and magnesium with insulin sensitivity and their influence on glycemic control

Abstract

Insulin resistance increases the risk of developing diabetes, and the degree of resistance influences the glycemic control of patients with diabetes. Numerous researchers have focused on improving insulin sensitivity in order to prevent diabetes-related complications and other chronic diseases. Several studies have also linked vitamin D levels to insulin secretion and resistance, given that both vitamin D and its receptor complex play important roles in regulating pancreatic β-cells. It has been suggested that vitamin D supplementation improves vitamin D levels, but further research is needed to confirm this as neither insulin function nor glycemic control improves when vitamin D levels increase. Magnesium is a cofactor for many enzymes. Although the role of magnesium in the management of diabetes has long been evaluated, it has not yet been determined whether magnesium supplements improve insulin function. However, several researchers have found that patients with good glycemic control have high magnesium levels. Magnesium is closely related to vitamin D and is necessary for the transport and activation of vitamin D in humans. Combined supplementation with vitamin D and magnesium improves glycemic control in patients with diabetes.

Keywords: Vitamin D; Magnesium; Diabetes; Insulin sensitivity; Insulin resistance; Glycemic control

Core Tip: The effect of vitamin D and magnesium level on insulin sensitivity and glycemic control is reviewed. Many previous studies have focused on vitamin D and magnesium levels and supplementation. Recently, researchers have found that vitamin D and magnesium play different roles in diabetes; thus, a combination of adequate vitamin D and magnesium is most likely required to enhance insulin secretion and action and promote glycemic control.