Magnesium Depletion Score (MDS) Predicts Risk of Systemic Inflammation and Cardiovascular Mortality among US Adults

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Nutritional Science
• Medical Research

Background:

• Magnesium (Mg) reabsorption by the kidneys is crucial for maintaining bodily homeostasis.
• Magnesium deficiency is a growing health concern linked to various adverse outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate the kidney reabsorption-related Magnesium Depletion Score (MDS).
• To assess MDS's ability to predict magnesium deficiency, disease outcomes, inflammation, and mortality.

Main Methods:

• MDS was developed and validated in two cohorts: the PPCCT (n=77) and the NHANES (n>10,000).
• Validation involved predicting magnesium deficiency using the magnesium tolerance test (MTT) and analyzing associations with inflammation (C-reactive protein) and mortality (total and CVD).
• Proportional hazards regression models were used to examine associations between magnesium intake, MDS, and mortality risks.

Main Results:

• MDS demonstrated superior prediction of magnesium deficiency compared to serum magnesium alone in the PPCCT.
• In NHANES, higher MDS correlated with increased C-reactive protein levels, particularly in individuals with low magnesium intake below the EAR.
• Low magnesium intake was associated with increased total and CVD mortality risk only in individuals identified with magnesium deficiency by MDS.

Conclusions:

• The MDS is a valuable tool for identifying individuals with magnesium deficiency who could benefit from increased magnesium intake.
• MDS can help mitigate risks of systemic inflammation and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality.
• This research supports the development of precision-based nutritional strategies for magnesium management.