We don’t often think about it, but magnesium plays a vital role in nearly every cellular process in our body. A new Australian study highlights how low magnesium levels can significantly impact our health — from damaging DNA to increasing the risk of chronic degenerative diseases.
What Did the Science Show?
Researchers at the University of South Australia analyzed blood samples from 172 middle-aged adults and found a strong correlation between low blood magnesium and elevated levels of homocysteine, a genotoxic amino acid.
This harmful combination may cause DNA damage and drastically raise the risk of conditions such as:
- Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Certain cancers
- Type 2 diabetes
Why Is Magnesium So Essential?
Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the human body. It’s involved in over 600 enzymatic reactions, including those essential for:
- Energy production
- Cardiovascular, muscle, and kidney function
- Blood sugar and blood pressure regulation
- Bone and teeth formation
Most importantly, this study confirms magnesium’s protective role against DNA damage, especially when folate and vitamin B12 levels are also low.
Who’s at Risk?
Dr. Permal Deo, the study’s lead author, notes that a daily intake below 300 mg can significantly increase disease risk. The concern is that magnesium deficiency often progresses silently, without obvious symptoms.
Where to Get It?
Fortunately, magnesium is abundant in many whole foods. Some of the richest natural sources include:
- Whole grains
- Dark green leafy vegetables (like spinach and Swiss chard)
- Nuts and seeds (almonds, hazelnuts)
- Legumes (beans, lentils)
- Dark chocolate (with a high cacao content)
What’s Next?
Professor Michael Fenech, co-author of the study, emphasizes the need to determine the optimal dietary intake of magnesium, whether through food or supplements, and to further explore its role in preventing or slowing chronic diseases such as cancer and neurodegeneration.
Izvor: Varinderpal S. Dhillon, Permal Deo, Michael Fenech. Low magnesium in conjunction with high homocysteine increases DNA damage in healthy middle aged Australians. European Journal of Nutrition, 2024; DOI: 10.1007/s00394-024-03449-0
As Part of The HEALTH FORMULA Protocol...
Within the Health Formula protocol, magnesium is not treated as just another supplement — it’s seen as a cornerstone of a personalized health strategy. Each patient receives a tailored evaluation, including lab work and symptom analysis, to determine the most appropriate form, dose, and nutrient combinations for magnesium supplementation.
Because true health is never one-size-fits-all — it’s a formula designed for you.
