Abstract

Introduction: Obesity is a main public health problem worldwide and obese individuals are at high risk for developing micronutrient deficiencies. One of these micronutrients is magnesium, which is a cofactor for more than 300 enzymes in the body. The aim of this study was to investigate serum magnesium concentration and its relationship with body composition in obese and non obese women. Material and methods: Eighty-two reproductive age women (42 obese women and 40 non obese women) participated in this study. Body composition was analyzed by HUMAN – IMPLUS. Serum calcium, magnesium and phosphorous levels were measured colorimetricaly and serum alkaline phosphatase was measured by enzymatic method. Results: Basal concentration of serum magnesium in obese women was significantly lower than in non obese women(P<0.05). There was a significant negative relationship between serum magnesium and BMI, kilograms of body fat, body fat percent and waist circumference and a significant positive relationship between serum magnesium and percent of fat free mass however, this was not shown for obese and non obese women separately. Prevalence of magnesium deficiency was not significantly different between two groups. Conclusion: Obese women have lower serum magnesium than non obese women. Hence these individuals need to improve their dietary magnesium intake.