Is Magnesium Important for Optimal Health? Study finds out - Video

In a recent study published in the European Journal of Nutrition, researchers investigated whether magnesium deficiency, either on its own or combined with elevated homocysteine levels, was linked to DNA damage in a healthy middle-aged population.

Study reveals that people with both high homocysteine levels and magnesium deficiency showed elevated levels of nucleoplasmic bridges and micronuclei in their blood compared to those with high magnesium levels and low homocysteine. These findings suggest that magnesium is crucial for shielding nucleic acids from internal genotoxic damage.

Magnesium is one of the four most prevalent minerals in the human body and is essential for DNA repair and replication. It acts as a cofactor for several enzymes that are crucial for nucleic acid repair and replication. Additionally, magnesium is important for bone development, nerve function, protein metabolism, cell growth, and the regulation of blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

For the study researchers recruited participants aged 35 to 65 who were healthy, non-smokers, and had no diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or mild cognitive impairment were recruited. Individuals taking medications for serious illnesses like cancer or using daily supplements of minerals, vitamins, or fish oil.

Blood samples were collected from all participants after an overnight fast over a six-month period to measure various biomarkers of DNA damage. The cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay was employed to evaluate the presence of micronuclei, nuclear buds, and nucleoplasmic bridges in the blood.

Additionally, the findings indicated that adequate intake of vitamin B12 and magnesium can support genomic integrity and reduce homocysteine levels, which may promote healthy aging.

Reference: Dhillon, V. S., Deo, P., & Fenech, M. (2024). Low magnesium in conjunction with high homocysteine increases DNA damage in healthy middle-aged Australians. European Journal of Nutrition. DOI:10.1007/s00394024034490

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00394-024-03449-0