Magnesium & Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis, a serious disease caused by the buildup of harmful plaque in your arteries, is a leading cause of coronary disease and also results in high blood pressure. While some research offers evidence for magnesium playing a beneficial role in preventing and treating atherosclerosis and related circulatory diseases, as of 2011 the evidence as to its precise effects is inconclusive. Many food sources provide an ample source of dietary magnesium, but it you choose to take a nutritional supplement, first talk to your doctor.

Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is widespread in the American population. It's caused by the accumulation of hardened plaque in the arteries, the blood vessels that move oxygen throughout your body. As plaque builds up, the arteries become clogged, raising blood pressure and limiting blood flow. Atherosclerosis is a major cause of heart disease and stroke and is also associated with increased risk for kidney disease. According to the 2011 statistical update released by the American Heart Association, 32 percent of women and 52.9 percent of men between the ages of 45 and 75 have coronary artery calcification, or atherosclerosis of the coronary artery.

Magnesium and Atherosclerosis

Magnesium, an essential mineral and electrolyte, may play a crucial role in atherosclerosis, but according to the National Institutes of Health, more research is required to fully understand its heart health benefits. According to a review of recent research conducted by the Linus Pauling Institute, increased blood magnesium levels have been shown to be associated with reduced risk for coronary heart disease in women. Large prospective studies of male and female health practitioners have also identified a relationship between high levels of dietary magnesium and lowered risk of elevated blood pressure.

Mixed Research

The existing findings on magnesium present mixed results. Researchers affiliated with the University of Minnesota School of Public Health released a report in April 1999 in the “Annals of Epidemiology” based on findings from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study. The data, drawn from following 7,731 men and women over six years, found no evidence of a relationship between magnesium consumption in diet and hypertension, or high blood pressure. But an article appearing in July 2003 in “Molecular Aspects of Medicine” concluded that magnesium offers tangible benefits to arterial health and may help prevent and treat atherosclerosis.

Magnesium and Your Health

Despite the contradictions in existing research, health authorities agree that a healthy diet is an invaluable tool in protecting against atherosclerosis and related disease. Foods rich in magnesium include nuts, legumes, vegetables, whole grains and certain types of fish, which taken together provide you with heart-healthy vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and dietary fiber. To support cardiovascular health and reduce arterial plaque and atherosclerosis, the Mayo Clinic recommends following a diet that emphasizes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and low-fat protein sources.