Low magnesium levels may contribute to hypertension. One possible explanation could be that a deficiency of magnesium causes constriction of blood vessels.
Prenatal Magnesium
Prenatal magnesium complex may help women manage their blood pressure during pregnancy. Pregnant women should be cautious that the supplement may possibly interact with some medications. For example, antibiotics may interact with bisphosphonates used to treat osteoporosis and may cause magnesium supplementation to be ineffective. You should always consult a healthcare practitioner prior to taking any supplements.
A Magnesium Study
Current research suggests that magnesium may help lower blood pressure in hypertensive individuals. This mineral helps the body’s endothelial cells function properly and may improve blood flow. A magnesium deficiency may lead to various conditions, including atherosclerosis and reduced blood flow between the brain and kidneys. Magnesium is also an important element in the DASH diet, which includes plenty of fruits and vegetables and is low in saturated and total fats. Interestingly, a diet containing Magnesium may result in significant decreases in blood pressure.
Although the root cause of high blood pressure is unknown, magnesium deficiency may be a risk factor. This mineral increases the production of prostaglandin E1, a vascular relaxant that prevents blood clots. A study by Yiqing Song, an associate professor at the Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health in Philadelphia, showed that magnesium supplementation significantly decreased systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The higher the dose, the greater the effect. While the benefits of magnesium supplements are well documented, research on how much of the mineral is needed to lower blood pressure remains to be conducted.
Magnesium Supplementation
New research suggests that magnesium supplementation may help lower blood pressure in patients with cardiovascular diseases. Magnesium supplementation may reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The findings are reported in the journal hypertension.
Most Magnesium supplements contain 240 to 960 milligrams of magnesium. The Recommended Dietary Allowance for adults (RDA), is 310 to 320 mg for women and 400 to 420 mg for men.
