Myths vs facts: Magnesium and Blutzucker

Myth: Magnesium dramatically lowers blood sugar and can cure diabetes. Fact: Magnesium is involved in glucose metabolism by supporting insulin action and improving insulin sensitivity. Studies show that supplementation in people with magnesium deficiency or type 2 diabetes can modestly reduce fasting glucose and HbA1c. However, effects are small and do not replace medication or lifestyle changes. Another myth: Everyone with high blood sugar needs magnesium. In reality, only those with confirmed deficiency benefit. Assessing magnesium status is tricky – serum levels do not always reflect intracellular stores. Home test kits for magnesium provide only rough estimates and require clinical interpretation. Over-supplementation (e.g., >350 mg/day as supplement) can cause diarrhea and cardiac arrhythmias. Bottom line: Magnesium is a supportive factor, not a miracle cure. Evidence is moderate, based on randomized controlled trials but not unanimous.