Magnesium: The Super Mineral
Magnesium is an essential mineral for human nutrition and is needed for more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body. It helps to maintain normal nerve and muscle function, supports a healthy immune system, keeps the heartbeat steady, and helps bones remain strong. It also helps adjust blood glucose levels and aids in the production of energy and protein.[1] In its magnesium-L-threonate form, this mineral plays an important role in cognitive function. Studies have shown that magnesium in this form helps with memory retention, clearer thinking, reduction in stress and better sleep.[2] It is the only form of magnesium to cross the blood-brain barrier.
The most researched brand of magnesium-L-threonate is Magtein®. Magtein® was developed by a group of MIT scientists including Nobel Prize winner Susumu Tonegawa — who wanted to create a highly bioavailable magnesium compound that could significantly increase brain levels of magnesium through dietary supplementation.[3] In 2016 in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease published a 12 week study on Magtein®’s effect on cognitive ability. This human study was evaluated in four major domains: executive function, working memory, attention and episodic memory. Significant improvements were observed in each of these domains. The study concluded that Magtein® effectively increased the magnesium levels in participants while significantly improving memory, cognitive ability and reducing stress.[4]
The figure below shows the increased cognitive ability of clinical study participants taking Magtein® versus a placebo (or sugar pill) over a 6-week and 12-week period.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) 16 million Americans are living with cognitive impairment. With half of the population suffering from magnesium deficiency and the amount of U.S. residents 65 and older estimated to double over the next 25 years, research around strengthening brain function will be critical to maintaining health.[5] Super minerals, such as Magtein®, will play an important role in human nutrition and maintaining overall health.
[1] Magnesium in Diet. National Institute of Health: US Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002423.htm
[2] Magnesium L-Threonate to Enhance Learning and Memory in People with Dementia. National Institute on Aging. National Institute of Health. https://www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers/clinical-trials/magnesium-l-threonate-enhance-learning-and-memory-people-dementia
[3] Proprietary, Patented Magnesium Functional Ingredient Improves Learning, Memory. Press Release. http://magtein.com/proprietary,-patented-magnesium-functional-ingredient-improves-learning,-memory.html
[4] Clinical Trial to Evaluate Magtein in Older Adults. National Library of Medicine. National Institutes of Health. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02363634
[5] Cognitive Impairment: A Call for Action Now! Centers for Disease Control. https://www.cdc.gov/aging/pdf/cognitive_impairment/cogimp_poilicy_final.pdf
