Plasma status of selected minerals in hypertensive men with and without insulin resistance

The altered plasma statuses of selected minerals (Ca, Mg, Cu, Zn) have been noted in a cluster of insulin resistance syndromes, including hypertension and diabetes mellitus. The differences in plasma values of these minerals in hypertensive men with and without insulin resistance, as evaluated by an insulin suppression test, were investigated. The results showed that the p lasma values of determined minerals at fasting, 2 h after an oral glucose c hallenge, and after the insulin suppression test did not markedly differ be tween hypertensive subjects with and without insulin resistance. However, h ypertensive subjects had significantly lower plasma Ca values at fasting an d 2h after an oral glucose load, and higher fasting plasma Zn values, than normotensive controls. Hypertensive subjects also had higher steady-state p lasma glucose values, higher Zn and lower Mg and Cu values after the insuli n suppression test, when compared with controls. The present study suggests that altered plasma status of selected minerals in hypertension cannot be totally ascribed to the co-exhibition of insulin resistance.