Chromium, zinc, and magnesium are involved in insulin signaling and how the body deals with sugar. They promote helpful defense against adverse oxidation, for example, from tissue damage from high blood sugars.
In this study review, blood levels of trace elements (especially magnesium and zinc) were found to be lower in type-1 human diabetes patients than in controls. They were even lower in type 1-diabetes patients with poor glycemic control (hard to control blood sugar levels).
Animal studies in the past have repeatedly shown that chromium and magnesium supplementation stopped diabetes-induced complications and improved blood sugar control.
When is the last time your diabetologist spoke to you about testing for these minerals, or supplementing with these minerals, or assessing digestion of these minerals? Didn’t think so!
MORAL OF THIS STORY: Keep an intelligent eye on your kid’s nutrient status (and digestion/food reactivity’s) to prevent future disease as well as decrease complications from present illnesses.
SMART GUIDELINES:
• Test intracellular blood levels.
• Regular serum testing doesn’t cut the butter.
• Asses digestion needed to absorb these minerals.
• Rule out food reactivity’s that block absorption of these minerals and contribute to leaky gut, which can worsen outcomes.
Conclusion: The supplementation of type-1 diabetes patients with zinc, magnesium, and chromium may help to control diabetes and prevent diabetes-related oxidative injuries.
Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2015 Sep 24