Low magnesium levels lead to the development of diabetic retinopathy.
Low magnesium levels may be associated with the development of diabetic retinopathy — one of the most common complications of type 2 diabetes. This conclusion was reached by researchers, with the results of the meta-analysis published in the journal Nutrients.
Scientists analyzed data from 17 studies involving more than 2,200 people. It turned out that patients with retinopathy had significantly lower magnesium levels in their blood than diabetics without retinal damage. Moreover, the difference persisted regardless of the region, study design, and measurement methods, indicating the robustness of the identified association.
Further analysis showed that in more severe, proliferative forms of retinopathy, magnesium deficiency was more pronounced. This may indicate a connection between magnesium levels and disease progression, rather than just its onset.
The authors explain the results by stating that magnesium is involved in insulin function, energy metabolism, and vascular protection. Its deficiency may exacerbate oxidative stress, inflammation, and damage to the retinal vessels. According to the researchers, magnesium can be considered a potential risk marker.
