Abstract
Conflicting evidence exists regarding the effectiveness of magnesium supplementation during pregnancy in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) patients. This meta-analysis examines the effect of magnesium on glycemic indices and metabolic status in GDM. We searched databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted, and after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of four RCTs were considered eligible for the analysis. Outcome parameters included markers for glycemic control and metabolic status. A total of four RCTs with 198 participants (control = 99; magnesium supplemented = 99) were selected for the analysis. Magnesium supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in markers of glycemic control-fasting plasma glucose (standard mean difference ( μ^ ) = -0.83; 95% CI: [-1.13, -0.54]; p-value <.0001), and insulin levels ( μ^ = -0.95; 95% CI: [-1.38, -0.52]; p-value <.0001). Also, Mg intake resulted in altered oxidative stress markers TAC ( μ^ = 1.09; 95% CI: [0.10, 2.07]; p-value = .03) of the pregnant women. No significant effect on GSH and CRP levels was observed. This study provides evidence of the positive effects of magnesium intervention on insulin sensitivity and oxidative stress in GDM patients.