---
title: Recent Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Explores Potential Link Between Certain Micronutrients and Glucose Metabolism
description: A meta-analysis of over 14,000 adults ranked chromium and vitamin K among the micronutrients most linked to healthy glucose metabolism markers.
image: https://www.casi.org/hubfs/casi/featured/adobestock_85366322_0.jpeg
---

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Science Update

# Recent Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Explores Potential Link Between Certain Micronutrients and Glucose Metabolism

CA Cory Ambrose, ND, MAT Feb 24, 2023

![Recent Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Explores Potential Link Between Certain Micronutrients and Glucose Metabolism](https://www.casi.org/hs-fs/hubfs/casi/featured/adobestock_85366322_0.jpeg?width=960)

Evidence suggests that some changes in [blood sugar metabolism](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36638933/) have been linked with certain micronutrient deficiencies. [Trace elements](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32585827/) may play an important role in healthy glucose metabolism by helping to transport glucose across cell membranes and by helping to modulate insulin sensitivity.

A recently published [systematic review and meta-analysis](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36638933/) by Xia and colleagues investigated the potential connection between certain micronutrients and glucose metabolism. [Xia and colleagues](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36638933/) included a total of 170 studies that involved more than 14,000 adults and assessed the potential efficacy of certain trace elements, vitamins, and minerals. The authors report that reduced [magnesium status](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36638933/) has been associated with an increased risk of developing certain cardiometabolic conditions. This is believed to occur through the impairment of [tyrosine kinase](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36638933/) activity under conditions involving diminished intracellular magnesium.

Studies indicate that chromium may help support certain biochemical processes related to [insulin sensitivity](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36638933/) and may help support normal glucose tolerance. It is believed that chromium helps regulate [glucose homeostasis](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36638933/) by activating insulin receptors through specific oligopeptide signaling.

Reported as part of the meta-analysis findings of [Xia and colleagues](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36638933/), chromium was found to be the highest ranked in helping to reduce fasting blood glucose levels and Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) levels. [Vitamin K](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36638933/) was similarly ranked for its potential efficacy in modulating hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels and fasting insulin levels.

Certain cardiometabolic conditions may also be influenced by [oxidative stress](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36432623/). [Selenium](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36432623/) has been shown to help protect against oxidative damage by helping to increase superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase levels. [Selenate](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36432623/), a form of selenium, has been shown to help maintain blood sugar homeostasis by acting as an insulin mimetic. [Selenoprotein P](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36432623/) has also been shown to help support pancreatic beta-cell function through several different pathways. However, the authors of this [meta-analysis](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36638933/) note that current evidence related to selenium supplementation and glucose metabolism is conflicting, which will require more research before clinical conclusions can be made.

[Xia and colleagues](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36638933/) also discuss the roles of certain vitamins in glucose metabolism. In their meta-analysis, vitamin E was shown to help support certain aspects of metabolic health. Vitamin E is believed to support [antioxidative status](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36638933/) and help inhibit late glycosylation end-product formation. [Vitamin D](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36638933/) has been linked to changes in glucose metabolism. Niacin (vitamin B3) has also been researched for its potential to support certain aspects of [metabolic health](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36638933/).

Research indicates that approximately 70% of individuals with [prediabetes](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36324119/) may develop diabetes. Certain [lifestyle changes](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36324119/) and micronutrients have been shown to potentially help promote and maintain metabolic health. Micronutrients, such as [magnesium](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32585827/), support health through many biochemical functions. Micronutrients can act as cofactors for enzymatic reactions, assist in cell signaling, and help stabilize cellular structures. They may also help support the body’s response to oxidative stress and help promote healthy glucose metabolism.

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### Cory Ambrose, ND, MAT

Clinical Application

## Clinical Considerations in Practice

 In clinical practice, practitioners considering the topics discussed above may also weigh nutrient form, delivery and formulation, alongside individual patient variability.

### Practitioner Formulation Example

![Metabolic Synergy™](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lemtscrs/production-www/6eeee00d9deaa49a002705069f75208d51ec8531-2000x2000.png?w=128&h=128&fit=max&auto=format)

Metabolic Synergy™

Vitamins, minerals, alpha lipoic acid, and chromium · Capsules

[Explore Formulations →](https://www.designsforhealth.com/products/metabolic-synergy)

## Continue your research

#### [Science Update A Case Series on an Allulose-Containing Gummy in Healthy Adults Monitored by Continuous Glucose Monitoring Sep 09, 2026](https://www.casi.org/articles/a-case-series-on-an-allulose-containing-gummy-in-healthy-adults-monitored-by-continuous-glucose-monitoring)

#### [Research & Education PCOS Is Now PMOS: Understanding the New Terminology and Its Metabolic Implications Jun 11, 2026](https://www.casi.org/articles/pcos-is-now-pmos-understanding-the-new-terminology-and-its-metabolic-implications)

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