Higher Magnesium Intake May Help Support Cardiovascular Health

Magnesium is a mineral that plays a major role in the body including supporting healthy blood pressure, keeping bones strong, and keeping heart rhythm steady. According to a recent study, consuming sufficient levels of magnesium may help mature adults with a history of heart attack reduce the risk of premature cardiovascular death.

For their study, the researchers enrolled 4,365 adults with an average age of 70 and a history of heart attack. Dietary data and supplement use data were collected at the beginning of the study and used to evaluate magnesium intake. Participants were followed for an average of 12 years and all cardiovascular deaths were recorded.

Participants with higher magnesium intakes (greater than 320 mg daily had a reduced risk of cardiovascular death compared to those with low magnesium intake (less than 280 mg daily). A increase of 100 mg daily in magnesium intake was associated with a 30-40% lower risk.

Participants who were taking diuretics and had high magnesium intake saw the highest reduction in risk.

The report was conducted by researchers from Wageningen University and Research. It was published online ahead of print on August 12, 2022 in the journal Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine.

A previous study found that supplementation with magnesium may help support blood sugar health.