Magnesium

Indication: Coronary heart disease risk

Source: Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, December 2009; 21(12):651-657.

Research: Researchers reviewed randomized, controlled, clinical trial (RCT) literature and prospective studies for the safety and efficacy of magnesium supplements in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) or with CHD risk.

Results: Subjects reporting lower dietary magnesium intake had significantly lower serum magnesium concentrations than those reporting higher dietary magnesium intake and, in some cases, had a significantly higher frequency of supraventricular beats. There was a modest relationship between dietary magnesium intake and a reduced risk of CHD in male subjects; however, there was no noted decrease in the development of CHD in women who had high magnesium intake. Researchers concluded there is a possible association between a modestly lower risk of CHD in men and increased magnesium intake.