Longevity Articles

The Link Between Magnesium and Longevity

Eating a bowl of cereal with milk
Magnesium is a mineral that is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions. It is an essential cofactor for protein synthesis, energy production, metabolic health, and much more. During the aging process, magnesium absorption through the gut can become more difficult and excretion can increase. This may lead to an overall increase in the risk of lowered magnesium status.

Low magnesium levels have been associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, epigenetic changes, and all other hallmarks of aging. Furthermore, research indicates that habitually low intake of magnesium can alter biochemical pathways, potentially leading to an increase  in many age-related challenges.  

Magnesium’s role in healthy aging is broad and dynamic. It acts as a cofactor in DNA repair and helps support DNA stability and replication. It is also essential to RNA transcription and osteoblast proliferation. Magnesium also helps activate mTOR signaling to help protect muscle integrity.  

In addition, magnesium influences all intracellular communication pathways related to blood sugar metabolism. It also influences sirtuin activity, factors related to immunosenescence, and transporters related to immune cell signaling.

Shortened telomere length is one of the hallmarks of aging. Telomeres are reliant on magnesium to help correctly bind to the structure of the nucleus. In addition, preclinical evidence suggests that reduced magnesium status may alter the activity of telomerase, an enzyme critical for telomere integrity in cardiomyocytes.  

Mitochondrial function is dependent on magnesium for supporting cell signaling, pH balance, and more. Magnesium deficiency has been linked to altered mitochondrial function, which can influence all other hallmarks of aging. Research suggests that reduced cellular magnesium may render mitochondria more susceptible to oxidative stress and depleted ATP.

Magnesium may particularly influence brain health during aging. The brain is the most metabolically active part of the body and can be vulnerable to disruptions in cellular function and energy production. Because magnesium is a critical cofactor for cellular energy production and the citric acid cycle, it may uniquely support optimal cellular function in the brain during the aging process. In addition, magnesium may help support protein integrity in the brain and body.   

Magnesium can be found in leafy greens, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and legumes. Its bioavailability may increase in the presence of certain micronutrients and macronutrients; these include vitamins B6 and D, fermentable fiber, and certain unprocessed foods.

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* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.


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