19 June 2013
According to a new US review, elevated blood concentrations and intakes of magnesium may decrease the risk of developing cardiovascular disease by 30 %.
The review and meta-analysis comprised 16 prospective studies providing the blood magnesium levels and estimated intakes as well as documented cases of cardiovascular disease (CVD), including ischemic heart disease (IHD), among a total of 313,041 participants (1). The analysis showed that the risk of developing cardiovascular disease was reduced by 30 % in participants with incremented amounts of circulating magnesium (per 0.2 mmol/L). In addition, trends for a risk reduction of IHD and fatal IHD were shown. Higher magnesium intake (per 200 mg/day) was not significantly associated with CVD but was associated with a 22 % lower risk of IHD.
The researchers noted that these findings supported the need for clinical trials to evaluate the potential role of magnesium in the prevention of CVD. Observational and experimental studies have shown that magne-sium can exert beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system by enhancing endothelium-dependent vasodilation, improving lipid metabolism, reducing inflammation and inhibiting platelet function (2). Although marked reductions in magnesium concentrations or intakes produce adverse cardiovascular effects, such as heart rhythm changes (3), it remains unclear whether the CVD risk differs across the normal physiologic concentration range of circulating magnesium or dietary magnesium intake.
1 June 2011
According to a new review, vitamin E seems to play an essential role in reducing the risk of diseases related to high cholesterol levels such as atherosclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease.
17 May 2013
A regular supplementation with docosahexaenoic acid or a multivitamin/mineral/trace element combination may reduce the incidence of aggressive behavior, impulsivity and/or perceived stress, says a new study from UK.
19 October 2012
A new Australian review suggests that supplementation with vitamins, minerals, and/or omega-3 fatty acids may positively influence cognition, learning, and behavior in children and adolescents, especially those with low socioeconomic status and learning disabilities.
