Low magnesium and atherosclerosis: an evidence-based link

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Science
• Nutritional Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Magnesium deficiency is implicated in cardiovascular risk factors and atherosclerosis.
• Low magnesium levels may accelerate atherogenesis by affecting LDL and inflammation.
• Endothelial dysfunction, a precursor to plaque formation, is linked to low magnesium.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of magnesium in cardiovascular health.
• To explore magnesium's potential in preventing and treating atherosclerosis.
• To assess magnesium's impact on endothelial function.

Main Methods:

• Review of experimental data on magnesium deficiency and atherogenesis.
• In vitro studies on magnesium's effect on endothelial cells.
• Analysis of studies on oral magnesium therapy in cardiovascular patients.

Main Results:

• Low plasma magnesium accelerates atherosclerosis by increasing LDL oxidation and inflammation.
• In vitro, low magnesium causes endothelial dysfunction.
• Oral magnesium therapy improved endothelial function in patients with coronary artery disease.

Conclusions:

• Magnesium deficiency may be a crucial link between cardiovascular risk factors and atherosclerosis.
• Magnesium is a safe and inexpensive element with potential for atherosclerosis prevention.
• Magnesium could serve as an adjuvant therapy for clinical cardiovascular disease manifestations.