Age-Associated Magnesium Deficiency Linked to Stiff Arteries

A new study demonstrates that in individuals age 55 and over, the lack of magnesium¹ is an independent risk factor for stiff arteries. Magnesium deficiency is a common problem in Americans. Correcting this deficiency could have a major impact on cardiovascular health and help to correct the source of problems such as high blood pressure. 

Magnesium is an important co-factor in several hundred enzyme systems relating to healthy function including those influencing cardiovascular health.  We know that magnesium is a primary anti-inflammatory mineral helping to resolve the low-grade inflammation that is linked to cardiovascular problems. We know that magnesium helps to smooth out the electrical signals to the heart, which helps to stabilize heart beats in a healthy way. This new study places emphasis on the ability of magnesium to influence the health of arteries.

Other significant research in the past few years has focused on a number of mechanisms involved with how magnesium influences arterial health². The net result of these multiple influences is improvement in vascular tone by reduced inflammation, improved vasodilation, and supporting the production of friendly nitric oxide (eNOS Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase. Type of enzyme involved with various physiological signals and maintenance activities with nitric oxide. ) that is essential for arterial relaxation. 

Additionally, scientists have now discovered how magnesium has a direct electrical activity within the walls of the arteries so as to help them relax. The new research focuses on magnesium transporters that bring the magnesium inside cells of the arteries so that the relaxing electrical influence of magnesium can occur.

A healthy cardiovascular system is one which handles stimulation with a balance of relaxation. If you can’t handle stimulation or activation of the system then your energy will not be good, your mood will suffer, and so will your motivational drive. Science clearly tells us that too much tension or excess in the activation becomes problematic once the relaxation side of the equation becomes depleted. To restore health you must restore the system of balance in your circulatory system. Many factors are involved, not just magnesium. However, it is clear that if you lack magnesium your “relaxation team” is in trouble.