Magnesium

In 2005, researchers from Brigham Hospital collected dietary and medical data from more than 11,000 women over the age of 45 who participated in the ongoing Women's Health Study. Results showed that subjects with the highest magnesium intake had a 27 percent lower risk of developing metabolic syndrome.

The following year, Northwestern University researchers reported on a study in which dietary and medical records for more than 4,600 healthy subjects were followed for 15 years. As in the Brigham and Women's study, highest intake of magnesium was linked with a significantly lower risk of MSX (Metabolic syndrome).

The Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden reviewed seven large studies similar to the two above - in each study, dietary and medical records were followed over a long period. Four studies tracked diet only, while three studies reviewed dietary habits and supplement intake. The combined studies included more than 286,000 subjects.

Results: Six of the studies found a significant association between high magnesium intake and reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. The sources of magnesium - whether from diet or supplements combined with diet - were equally effective. Diabetes risk dropped by 15 percent for every 100 mg increase in magnesium intake.