Serum trace elements in insulin-dependent and non-insulin-dependent diabetes: a comparative study

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus is associated with imbalance in body trace elements. The aim of the current investigation was to compare the levels of trace elements (Zn, Mg, Mn, Cu, Na, K, Fe, Ca, Cr, and Se) in insulin dependent (IDDM) and non-insulin dependent (NIDDM) diabetes. METHODS: A total of 100 patients with diabetes (40 IDDM and 60 NIDDM) and 50 healthy subjects were recruited in the study from both genders. Biochemical measures include glucose, lipids, and HbA1C. RESULTS: The results showed that Zn, Mg, Cu and Cr were significant lower in patients with diabetes compared to the control group (P<0.01). In addition, Zn and Cr were significantly lower in IDDM than NIDDM (P<0.05). Moreover, Zn and Mg levels were inversely correlated with HbA1c in IDDM and NIDDM (P<0.05). Zn was inversely correlated with fasting blood glucose in IDDM (P<0.05). Finally, no correlation between trace element levels with BMI was found (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: Disturbance in trace element profile among IDDM and NIDDM is similar.