Calcium and magnesium
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The Interplay Between Calcium and Magnesium: Health Implications
Calcium and Magnesium in Cardiovascular Health
Magnesium and calcium are both crucial for cardiovascular health, but they often have opposing effects. Magnesium acts as a natural calcium blocker, countering the actions of calcium in myocardial contractility, impulse formation, and smooth muscle tone. Excess magnesium can block calcium's effects, while magnesium deficiency can enhance them, suggesting that magnesium may help control certain cardiovascular functions . However, a study on calcium and magnesium supplementation in adults with high-normal blood pressure found no significant changes in blood pressure, indicating that supplementation alone may not be effective for blood pressure management .
Calcium and Magnesium in Immune Function and Energy Balance
Supplementation of calcium and magnesium during late gestation and early lactation in ewes has shown to improve the immune response and energy balance in both ewes and their lambs. Lambs from ewes supplemented with calcium and magnesium had higher oxidative burst response and total antioxidant capacity, indicating enhanced immune function. Additionally, ewes supplemented with these minerals regulated energy balance more efficiently at lambing .
Calcium and Magnesium Homeostasis in Plants
In plants, calcium and magnesium are the most abundant divalent cations and play essential roles in nutrient signaling and homeostasis. Calcium levels are tightly controlled by various channels and carriers, while magnesium homeostasis is primarily managed by CorA-type transporters. These two ions often have antagonistic interactions, necessitating a balance for optimal plant growth and development. The Ca2+-dependent CBL-CIPK pathway is a key signaling mechanism that links environmental nutrient status to transport activities .
Calcium and Magnesium in Bone Health
Calcium and magnesium are vital for skeletal health, with calcium being essential for bone structure and magnesium playing a role in bone metabolism. While calcium supplementation alone is not recommended for fracture prevention in the general postmenopausal population, it can be beneficial for those with insufficient dietary intake. Magnesium deficiency can negatively impact bone and muscle health, although the efficacy of magnesium supplementation on bone health remains inconclusive .
Calcium and Magnesium Ratios and Chronic Disease
The ratio of calcium to magnesium intake is crucial for various health outcomes. Ratios below 1.7 or above 2.8 can be detrimental. For instance, higher calcium intake is associated with reduced risks of advanced adenoma and distal colorectal cancer, particularly when the Ca:Mg ratio is between 1.7 and 2.5 . Additionally, a study in a Chinese population found that a low Ca:Mg intake ratio was associated with increased mortality risks, suggesting that the balance between these minerals is important for overall health and disease prevention .
Conclusion
Calcium and magnesium are essential minerals with significant roles in cardiovascular health, immune function, energy balance, plant growth, bone health, and chronic disease prevention. Their interactions and the balance between their intakes are critical for optimal health outcomes. Further research is needed to fully understand their complex interplay and to develop effective supplementation strategies.
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