Elevated C-Reactive Protein Levels Modify the Effect of Magnesium on Depressive Symptoms: A Population-Based Study

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

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.

Association between dietary magnesium intake and gallstones: the mediating role of atherogenic index of plasma

BACKGROUND

Dyslipidemia and abnormalities in cholesterol metabolism are commonly observed in individuals with gallstone disease. Previous research has demonstrated that dietary magnesium can influence lipid metabolism. The atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) has emerged as a novel lipid marker. This study aimed to examine the possible correlation between dietary magnesium intake and gallstones and the potential mediating role of AIP in US adults.

METHODS

A total of 4,841 adults were included in this study from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted from 2017 to 2020. A variety of statistical techniques such as logistic regression, subgroup analysis, smoothed curve fitting, and causal mediation analysis were utilized to analyze the information collected from the participants.

RESULTS

In the fully adjusted model, a statistically noteworthy inverse relationship was observed between dietary magnesium intake and the presence of gallstones, as indicated by an odds ratio (OR) of 0.58 and a 95% confidence interval (CI) of (0.42, 0.81). Causal intermediary analysis revealed that the association between magnesium intake and gallstones was partially mediated by AIP, with a mediation ratio of 3.2%.

CONCLUSION

According to this study, dietary magnesium intake had a significant linear negative association with the prevalence of gallstones, in which AIP played a mediating role. This discovery offers novel perspectives on the prevention and management of gallstones.