Magnesium Deficiency and Its Impact on the Development of Insulin Resistance in Obese Individuals

Background: Obesity is a major public health concern, contributing to metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. In Bangladesh, the rising obesity rates highlight the need for targeted interventions. Magnesium, an essential mineral involved in glucose metabolism and insulin signalling, has been linked to insulin resistance, with deficiency increasing the risk of metabolic disorders. Studies suggest that obese individuals are prone to magnesium depletion due to increased urinary excretion and poor dietary intake. Aim of the study: The study aims to evaluate the association between magnesium deficiency and insulin resistance in obese individuals. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study assessed the association between magnesium deficiency and insulin resistance in 100 obese individuals at (name) Medical College and Hospital, Bangladesh, over one year from (start) to (end). Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained. Anthropometric measurements, dietary magnesium intake, and physical activity levels were recorded. Blood samples were analyzed for serum magnesium, fasting glucose, HbA1c, insulin, HOMA-IR, lipid profile, CRP, and vitamin D. Data were analyzed using SPSS (version 26.0), with t-tests, ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple regression to determine relationships and predictors of insulin resistance. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result: This study found a significant association between magnesium deficiency and insulin resistance in 100 obese Bangladeshi individuals. The mean BMI was 29.8 kg/m², with 55% having hypertension and 48% having diabetes. Mean fasting blood glucose was 112.6 mg/dL, HbA1c was 6.1%, and fasting insulin was 15.8 µU/mL. Serum magnesium averaged 1.72 mg/dL, showing a strong negative correlation with fasting glucose (r = -0.42, p = 0.002), HbA1c (r = -0.38, p = 0.005), and HOMA-IR (r = -0.47, p = 0.001). Regression analysis confirmed magnesium deficiency as an