Magnesium is a mineral that can be found in legumes, green leafy vegetables, seeds, nuts, and in smaller amounts meat and fish. It is required for multiple biochemical reactions in the body and is involved in maintaining nerve and muscle function. Magnesium supplementation is commonly used to prevent/treat muscle cramps, and is thought to be able to lower blood pressure, but is this true?
Current research has identified that in the older population magnesium supplementation is unlikely to provide meaningful benefit in reducing the frequency or severity of muscle cramps. In pregnant women the current research on magnesium supplementation to ease rest-associated cramps is inconclusive. More research needs to be completed on magnesium supplementation and includes muscle cramps caused by exercise and disease.
In terms of lowering blood pressure, the findings from research vary with some reporting magnesium supplementation lowered blood pressure compared to a placebo (inactive pill), whereas other studies reported no difference between people who took a magnesium supplement and people who took a placebo. Unfortunately, most of the research completed on magnesium supplementation is of poor quality, so results may not be reliable. Further research needs to be conducted before it can be established that magnesium supplementation is beneficial for lowering blood pressure.
Back to read more on Supplements
Last modified: January 25, 2022
