The Interplay between Magnesium and Testosterone in Modulating Physical Function in Men

Abstract

The role of nutritional status as key factor of successful aging is very well recognized. Among the different mechanisms by which nutrients may exert their beneficial effects is the modulation of the hormonal anabolic milieu, which is significantly reduced with aging. Undernutrition and anabolic hormonal deficiency frequently coexist in older individuals determining an increased risk of mobility impairment and other adverse outcomes. Mineral assessment has received attention as an important determinant of physical performance. In particular, there is evidence that magnesium exerts a positive influence on anabolic hormonal status, including Testosterone, in men. In this review we summarize data from observational and intervention studies about the role of magnesium in Testosterone bioactivity and the potential underlying mechanisms of this relationship in male subjects. If larger studies will confirm these pivotal data, the combination of hormonal and mineral replacements might be adopted to prevent or delay the onset of disability in the elderly.

Figure 1

Changes in Testosterone levels at baseline and after treatment. Changes in the average Testosterone levels (nmol/L) before (baseline) and after (post-treatment) magnesium sulfate administration (blue line) and placebo (red line). The difference in total Testosterone levels between the 2 groups touched the statistical significance (P = 0.12).

Figure 2

Relationship between Testosterone and magnesium, potential underlying mechanisms and clinical implications. The aging process is frequently characterized by an impaired homeostatic reserve due to an imbalance between energy assumption (left side) and utilization and consumption (middle and right sides). The activity of anabolic hormones, where T plays a central role, is influenced by mineral status (magnesium), along with caloric and protein intake. The systemic inflammation, which negatively influences magnesium and T and is in turn downregulated by these 2 factors.