Dietary Magnesium Intake and Brain Volumes by Daniel Murphy, DC

 Dr. Murphy states: "The global prevalence of dementia is expected to rise dramatically from 57.4 million in 2019 to 152.8 million in 2050.""Since there is no cure for dementia and the development of pharmacological treatment for dementia has been unsuccessful over the last 30 years, it has been suggested that greater attention should be directed at prevention. "

Higher baseline dietary Mg intake was associated with larger brain volumes in both men and women. Every 1 mg higher in baseline Mg above 350mg/day was associated with larger gray matter and fewer white matter lesions.  Higher dietary Mg intake was related to brain volumes and lower white matter lesions in a variety of brain regions.  There is considerable evidence that Mg levels are related to better cardiovascular health, and Mg supplementation has been found to decrease blood pressure, likely through its calcium antagonist action on smooth muscle tone, thus causing vasorelaxation.  Dietary Mg was associated with larger brain volumes and lower white matter lesions, indicating better brain health.  A 41% increase in Mg intake may lead to significantly better brain health, which would also be expected to contribute to greater preservation of cognitive ability and lower risk or delayed onset of dementia in later life.