Common Nutrient Deficiency Linked to Disease-Causing DNA Damage

If your diet includes plenty of leafy greens, dark chocolate, nuts, and beans, you’re likely in good shape. However, if these foods are missing from your meals, you should take note of a new study that highlights how a mineral deficiency can lead to DNA changes.

Researchers at the University of South Australia (UniSA) conducted a study analyzing blood samples from 172 middle-aged adults. They found that individuals with low magnesium levels also had elevated levels of an amino acid called homocysteine, which is considered genotoxic and capable of damaging human DNA.

The study also identified a positive link between higher levels of magnesium and increased levels of folate and vitamin B12.

UniSA Study Connects Low Magnesium to Increased DNA Damage, Adjusted for Gender and Age

“Our research demonstrated a clear connection between low blood magnesium levels (below 18mg/L) and greater DNA damage, even after accounting for factors like gender and age,” says Dr. Permal Deo, a UniSA molecular biologist and co-author of the study.

“Blood levels of magnesium, homocysteine (Hcy), folate, and vitamin B12 were measured, revealing an inverse relationship between magnesium and Hcy, and a positive relationship between magnesium, folate, and vitamin B12,” Dr. Deo explains. “This suggests that adequate magnesium levels in the blood are crucial for protecting our genes from the toxic effects of homocysteine, which rises when folate and vitamin B12 are deficient.”

The researchers warn that the harmful combination of low magnesium and elevated homocysteine levels could increase the risk of developing gastrointestinal diseases, various cancers, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

The research team suggests that the detrimental effects of low magnesium may stem from its role in breaking down the body’s ability to generate energy and power cells, leading to accelerated tissue aging.

Magnesium, the fourth most abundant mineral in the human body, is known to be vital for the proper synthesis of DNA and RNA. However, the impact of magnesium deficiency on these genetic materials had not been thoroughly investigated until now, according to the researchers.

Magnesium is vital for DNA, supports 300+ enzyme systems, and is associated with larger brain volumes

Magnesium is not only crucial for DNA but also serves as a cofactor in over 300 enzyme systems within the body, including those that regulate blood pressure, manage blood glucose levels, and support proper nerve function. A separate study from Australia last year also connected adequate magnesium levels with larger brain volumes.

While the researchers plan to explore the ideal dietary intake of magnesium in future studies, Dr. Deo notes that consuming less than 300 mg per day is considered low. The FDA recommends that adults over 31 aim for 420 mg per day, a target that’s relatively easy to achieve through diet or supplements.

For instance, one ounce of roasted pumpkin seeds provides 156 mg of magnesium, an ounce of chia seeds offers 111 mg, and an ounce of almonds contains 80 mg. Other top sources include spinach, cashews, peanuts, and soy milk.

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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