Magnesium supplementation supports good bone health

Individuals who receive supplementation with magnesium at higher concentrations show increased bone mineral density (BMD) at the hip and femoral neck, according to a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Researchers performed a systematic review of studies that examined the effect of magnesium intake from any source on outcomes, including BMD, bone mineral content (BMC), bone turnover markers, and fracture risk, among adults aged ≥60 years.

Out of 787 records identified, 11 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Of these, six were cohort, one was case-control, and five were cross-sectional. On qualitative evaluation, a positive trend emerged between higher magnesium intake and better hip and femoral neck BMD.

A total of six studies assessed the impact of magnesium intake on femoral neck BMD. Of the two studies with 4 years of follow-up, one found magnesium intake to be beneficial while the other reported a null effect. Meanwhile, of the four cross-sectional studies that looked at the impact of magnesium intake from food only with or without supplements, three yielded positive results while the fourth found no significant effect.

Pooled data from four studies revealed that magnesium intake had a significant positive association with hip BMD (pooled beta, 0.03, 95 percent confidence interval [CI], 0.01–0.06; p<0.05). Sensitivity analysis showed that no single study exerted a substantial influence on the overall estimate.

The present data suggest that a higher magnesium intake may support better hip and femoral neck BMD. For the most optimal effect on bone health, a combination of several bone nutrients (eg, calcium, vitamin D, protein, magnesium and other) may be needed, the researchers said. This should help delay or prevent the development of osteoporosis.

More studies are needed to establish the benefit of magnesium on bone health in older adults.