Low magnesium levels drive DNA damage, especially among people with high homocysteine.
Magnesium is critical for various biochemical processes, including DNA repair and replication. It also helps regulate homocysteine, an amino acid that, when elevated, can increase the risk of heart disease and other serious health problems. A recent study found that low magnesium levels might contribute to increased DNA damage, particularly when accompanied by high homocysteine levels.
Researchers measured the blood levels of magnesium, homocysteine, folate, and vitamin B12 in 172 healthy middle-aged people. They also assessed DNA damage by examining specific biomarkers in the blood cells, such as micronuclei, nucleoplasmic bridges, and nuclear buds.
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They found that participants with low magnesium and high homocysteine levels had more DNA damage markers than those with high magnesium and low homocysteine levels. While males had slightly higher magnesium and homocysteine levels, females tended to have greater numbers of specific DNA damage markers, particularly micronuclei. Despite these differences, the general pattern remained, with lower magnesium and higher homocysteine linked to increased DNA damage.
These findings indicate that maintaining higher magnesium levels might protect against DNA damage, particularly for people with high homocysteine. They also underscore the importance of adequate magnesium intake in overall health and its potential role in reducing the risk of diseases linked to DNA damage. Learn more about the health effects of magnesium in this episode featuring Dr. Rhonda Patrick and our comprehensive overview article.