Calcium and Magnesium Levels of Hair Tissue and Insulin Sensitivity

Abstract

Background: Calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) have been suggested to play a role in glucose and insulin action. Mg can function as a mild Ca antagonist. This study was conducted to study the association between Ca and Mg levels in hair tissue with insulin sensitivity.

Methods: Hair tissue of adult men were analyzed for mineral content and fasting plasma glucose and insulin were also measured. Quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) was measured as insulin sensitivity marker.

Results: Ca and Mg levels are not associated with QUICKI (Ca: r = 0.040, P = 0.684, Mg: r = 0.092, P = 0.348). The Ca/Mg ratio showed a significant inverse correlation with QUICKI (r = -0.193, P = 0.049).

Conclusion: The Ca/Mg ratio in hair tissue is inversely correlated with insulin sensitivity.