Magnesium Matters: A Comprehensive Review of Its Vital Role in Health and Diseases

Abstract

Magnesium (Mg), an essential mineral abundantly present within the human body, is intricately involved in a multitude of biochemical processes vital for maintaining health and overall well-being. This review aims to delve into the multifaceted impact of Mg on human health, exploring its physiological functions, dietary sources, and potential health implications of deficiency or insufficiency. Mg plays a pivotal role in various physiological processes, including energy metabolism, muscle contraction, protein synthesis, and DNA synthesis. It acts as a cofactor for more than 300 enzymatic reactions, facilitating the conversion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to adenosine diphosphate (ADP) for energy production. Moreover, Mg is essential for the proper functioning of ion channels, particularly calcium channels, influencing nerve transmission and muscle relaxation. Mg is naturally found in a wide array of foods, with green leafy vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes being particularly rich sources. Additionally, certain fortified foods and dietary supplements provide supplemental Mg intake. Deficiency or insufficiency of mg can have profound implications for health. Inadequate mg levels have been associated with increased risks of various chronic diseases, including hypertension, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, mg deficiency may manifest as symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, tremors, and irregular heartbeat. Numerous studies have elucidated the relationship between mg intake and the risk of developing chronic diseases. For instance, epidemiological evidence suggests that higher mg intake is associated with a reduced risk of hypertension, possibly due to its vasodilatory effects and influence on blood pressure regulation mechanisms. Similarly, mg has been implicated in the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes, with mg deficiency contributing to insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism. Furthermore, adequate mg intake is crucial for maintaining bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis, as mg plays a vital role in bone mineralization and bone health. Understanding the importance of mg in human physiology underscores the significance of ensuring adequate mg intake through diet or supplementation. Healthcare professionals play a critical role in educating individuals about the importance of incorporating mg-rich foods into their diets and considering mg supplementation when necessary, particularly for individuals at risk of deficiency or those with chronic diseases. Mg is an indispensable mineral with far-reaching implications for human health. Its involvement in various physiological processes underscores its importance in maintaining overall health and well-being. Ensuring adequate mg intake is essential for preventing deficiency-related health complications and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Further research is warranted to elucidate the optimal strategies for mg supplementation and its potential therapeutic applications in disease prevention and management.

Keywords: deficiency; diseases; health; healthcare; magnesium.

Figure 1. Routes of Mg absorption and excretion

Mg, magnesium Credit: authors

Figure 2. Illustrating the cellular and environmental sources of Mg deficiency and its consequences, particularly the generation of ROS

Cellular and environmental sources of Mg deficiency and its consequences, in the generation of ROS, and the role of antioxidants like glutathione in mitigating oxidative stress. A: cellular and environmental sources of MG deficiency and ROS generation, B: highlights the role of antioxidants like glutathione, as well as the precursor molecules cysteinylglycine, glycine, and cysteine, in combating oxidative damage and maintaining cellular health in the face of Mg deficiency. Mg, magnesium; ROS, reactive oxygen species Credits: authors

Figure 3. Mg deficiency disrupts the function of eNOS, reducing NO production from its substrate L-arginine. Decreased NO availability impairs vasodilation

Mg deficiency may inhibit PKG, which normally promotes the relaxation of smooth muscle cells by inhibiting Ca channels and MLC kinase. This leads to increased Ca influx and MLC phosphorylation, causing vasoconstriction and elevated blood pressure. Mg, magnesium; Ca, calcium; eNOS, endothelial nitric oxide synthase; PKG, protein kinase G; MLC, myosin light chain Credit: authors

Figure 4. Figure describes various aspects of bone metabolism, including the regulation of bone formation and reabsorption, as well as the signaling pathways involved in these processes

In the context of osteoporosis, inadequate intake of Mg or low Mg levels in the body can contribute to the upregulation of RANKL. RANKL regulates the survival, proliferation, and differentiation of osteoclasts by binding to its receptor, which is present in osteoclasts. The inducer of osteoclastogenesis, namely IKK expression, is regulated by Mg. Therefore, the dual role of Mg highlights its importance in maintaining balance in the human body. Mg, magnesium