As we age our bodies become deficient in a multitude of vitamins and minerals. The major reason for this deficiency is decreased absorption, but any underlying disease can also affect nutrient profiles. A large percentage of geriatric research is focused on improving the end years of life and looking at how improved nutrient availability affects a variety of parameters.
Magnesium is an essential mineral that must be consumed in the diet or taken as a supplement. It is widely used in the human body from processes such as energy metabolism to smooth muscle relaxation. The absorption of magnesium declines with age, but little is known about the effects of this decline on the aging body.
A group of researchers in Italy used data gathered in a large scale epidemiological study (InCHIANTI study) to determine the relationship between serum magnesium levels and muscle function in the elderly. A total of 1138 men and women completed the study which included baseline serum magnesium levels and several parameters of muscle function including grip strength, lower-leg muscle power, and lower extremity extension strengh.
The results were published in the August issue of American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and presented interesting. After adjusting for weight, age, sex, and underlying disease levels of serum magnesium were significantly associated with muscle function and strength in this population of elderly men and women.
The study did not examine the effects of supplementation, though the evidence presents a need for clinical studies to measure the effect of magnesium supplementation. Also a retrospective study that looked at daily magnesium intake compared to muscle function may be useful.
If supplementation with magnesium could in fact improve muscle strength and function in the elderly many risk factors that increase morbidity and mortality in the elderly could be effected such as: decreased rate of falls, decreased rate of fractures (related to falls), better mobility, as well as a better sense of self and independence if they are able to carry out activities of daily living longer.
Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on August 29, 2006 04:03 PM
