Why Normal Magnesium Levels are Important

Findings derived from the Nurses’ Health Study suggest a protective effect for magnesium against the risk of ischemic stroke in women.

The study, described in the October 2014 issue of the American Heart Association journal Stroke, included 459 Nurses’ Health Study participants who experienced an ischemic stroke and an equal number of control subjects.

Subjects whose magnesium levels were among the lowest fifth of participants had a risk of stroke that was 34% higher than those whose levels were among the top fifth. Those whose levels were lower had a 57% greater risk of total ischemic stroke, and a 66% higher risk of thrombotic stroke than women who had higher levels.

They remark that although only 1% of the body’s magnesium exists in plasma, levels are strongly correlated with intracellular magnesium and could be a better indicator of the mineral’s status than dietary intake. They note that risk factors for stroke, including diabetes and hypertension, have been associated with reduced magnesium levels, and that there is evidence that magnesium could help protect against blood clot formation.

“The results of this study suggest that low plasma magnesium may be associated with increased risk of ischemic stroke,” the authors conclude.

There are many ways to increase your magnesium levels. We carry Re-Mag in our offices, if you need supplementation to keep your levels normal. Give us a call to find out more information!