According to a new study, consuming adequate levels of Magnesium (322 mg daily) could reduce the chances of premature cardiovascular disease (CVD) and all cause mortality in older patients with a history of myocardial infarction (MI).
Both female and male participants in this study with an average age of 69 were selected from the cohort involved in the Alpha Omega Trial, which monitored Myocardial infarction patients to assess the effects of a low dose of Omega-3 essential fatty assets or a placebo over a 40 month period. In this study the Magnesium intakes of over 4.300 individuals were investigated over a 12 year period, which included follow ups. The dietary intake of Magnesium was established using a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) that verified drink and food frequency, food type, preparation methods, and quantities. Additionally supplement use was assessed using a Lifestyle and Health Questionnaire. It was determined that 235 or 5.4% of participants supplemented Magnesium and the overage Magnesium dosage was 300 mg daily.
Study results showed a direct link between Magnesium status and reductions in the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in both female and male participants. No significant association between Magnesium intake and death from CHD (Coronary Heart Disease) was reported.
Researchers found the difference of 100 mg of Magnesium intake daily was related to a 30 – 40% reduced risk of all cause mortality and CVD in more than one subgroup. Additionally the protective association of Magnesium was even more noticeable when participants was taking diuretics and believe Magnesium status is impacted when sodium in the kidney is inhibited.
These study results add to the growing body of scientific evidence which shows the potential health benefits of Magnesium. The NIH points to Magnesium being needed for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body such as maintaining normal muscle and nerve function, supporting a steady heart rhythm, supporting a healthy immune system and supporting healthy bones. Magnesium is also essential for healthy blood pressure and proper blood sugar management.
Further studies are planned.
Let’s talk a little bit more about the mineral Magnesium:
Magnesium plays an important role in the structure and the function of the human body. Actually the adult human body contains about 25 grams of Magnesium. Over 60% of the Magnesium in the body is found in the skeleton with about 27% of Magnesium found in the muscles and 6% or 7% of Magnesium found in other cells. As stated above Magnesium, is involved in over 300 essential metabolic reactions including the transport of Calcium and Potassium across cell membranes, protein and nucleic acid (DNA, RNA) synthesis, and energy production. Magnesium is also needed for the normal functioning of muscle and nervous tissue. Due to Magnesium’s interactive role in bone formation with Calcium, it may aid in preventing Calcium deposits as well as the formation of gallstones and kidney stones. Some of the lesser known function of Magnesium are synthesis of certain amino acids, the activation of enzyme systems and the maintenance of RNA and DNA neurotransmitter transmission. A deficiency of Magnesium could cause irritability of muscles and nerves as well as an irregular hearbeat, convulsions and even seizures.
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