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Magnesium Intake is Associated with a Lower Risk of Metabolic Syndrome.

The metabolic syndrome is a cluster of  certain conditions that include high blood pressure, high sugar level, excess body fat ( particularly around the waist), and high cholesterol. The presence of these conditions increases the individual's risk for cardiovascular disease, stroke and diabetes.

Scientists from Japan and the USA analyzed data from several published studies (a Meta-analysis) of  metabolic syndrome cases where dietary magnesium intake was ascertained.  The average magnesium daily intake ranged from 117 to 423 mg. The results from this study showed that people with the highest average intake (dietary intake) of magnesium were at a lower risk  of metabolic syndrome compared to people with lower intake. Every 100 mg increase of magnesium intake was associated with a 17 % decrease of metabolic syndrome. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for magnesium for adult women and men are 320 mg and 420 mg respectively. 

Magnesium is an essential mineral which is important for over 300 biochemical reactions. It is involved in muscle and nerve function, immune system, blood pressure, blood sugar, skeletal system, and heart rhythm. 

The study was a cross-sectional in its design,  which means that it is demonstrating an association and not necessarily causation. The possible mechanisms for this benefit associated with higher magnesium intake are its effects on glucose metabolism, lipid intake in the liver, inflammatory responses, and smooth muscle activity. 

The authors conclude" The findings from the present meta-analysis provide evidence that dietary magnesium intake is inversely  associated with the prevalence of metabolic syndrome". 

[Dietary magnesium intake  and risk of metabolic syndrome: a meta-analysis. Dibaba DT, et al. Diabetic Medicine. 2014, 31;1301-1309 ]

​Posted, December 6, 2014.