INTERPLAY OF SERUM ZINC AND MAGNESIUM LEVELS WITH INSULIN RESISTANCE AND ATHEROGENIC INDEX: EMERGING INSIGHTS IN TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS

Abstract

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a very prevalent metabolic disorder marked by either inadequate production of insulin or Insulin Resistance (IR), affecting an increasing number of people worldwide. Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is associated with persistent Hyperglycemia and is a frequent trigger for developing various microvascular and macrovascular complications; the most common one is cardiovascular disease. The Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP) has been regarded as a valuable index for evaluating the risk of developing cardiovascular complications in the case of T2DM. HOMA-IR or Homeostasis Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance, is often employed in the evaluation of IR. Micronutrients such as zinc and magnesium are essential in managing blood sugar levels and ensuring cardiovascular wellness. Zinc facilitates insulin production, storage and secretion, and assists in improving the lipid profile through HDL elevation and triglyceride reduction. Magnesium, the second most prevalent intracellular cation, is an important cofactor in enzymes responsible for glucose metabolism. Conclusion: Recent studies have emphasised the potential utility of Atherogenic Indices, especially AIP, as significant predictors of cardiovascular risk in T2DM. Serum zinc and magnesium levels have been found to be associated with adverse lipid profiles and AIP levels. The current review attempts to bring together the current scientific literature regarding the inter-relationship between zinc, magnesium, IR, and Atherogenic Indices with the potential utility of these micronutrient evaluations in the early identification of cardiovascular risk in T2DM patients.