Effects of Magnesium Supplementation on Blood Pressure: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trials
Dibaba DT, Xun P, Song Y, Rosanoff A, Shechter M, He K
Published in Hypertension
Abstract
Meta-analysis of 34 trials showing magnesium supplementation (median 368mg daily for 3 months) significantly reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Effects dose-dependent and greater in those with magnesium deficiency or elevated baseline BP.
Methodology
Meta-analysis of 34 randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trials of oral magnesium supplementation, median dose 368 mg/day for a median of 3 months, with dose-response and subgroup analyses.
Key Findings
Magnesium supplementation reduced systolic blood pressure by 2.00 mmHg and diastolic by 1.78 mmHg overall. Reductions were larger with higher doses and longer duration, and in participants with lower baseline magnesium status or higher baseline blood pressure. Serum magnesium rose by 0.05 mmol/L, and the increase correlated with the blood pressure reduction.
Conclusions
Magnesium supplementation of roughly 300-400 mg/day produces a small, dose-dependent reduction in blood pressure. It is a reasonable adjunct for people with low magnesium intake, not a replacement for antihypertensive therapy.
Limitations
Effect size is small and of uncertain clinical relevance at a population level; included trials were mostly short (median 3 months) with heterogeneous magnesium salts; few trials measured intracellular or ionised magnesium; long-term cardiovascular outcomes were not assessed.
Supplements Studied
Magnesium supplementation reduced systolic blood pressure by 2.00 mmHg and diastolic by 1.78 mmHg overall. Reductions were larger with higher doses and longer duration, and in participants with lower baseline magnesium status or higher baseline blood pressure. Serum magnesium rose by 0.05 mmol/L, and the increase correlated with the blood pressure reduction.
Outcomes Measured
Magnesium modestly reduced blood pressure and catecholamine-associated vascular tone in participants with insufficiency
Study Details
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This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.