Magnesium is a mineral that is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. It is essential for energy production, metabolism, muscle contraction, nerve impulse transmission, and many other vital processes. Magnesium is also increasingly recognized as an important contributor to bone health. 

Magnesium plays a role in calcium absorption and helps to regulate calcium metabolism. In addition, magnesium deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis. A number of studies have found that magnesium supplementation can improve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.

Why Magnesium is Important for Bone Health

Magnesium is an important mineral for maintaining bone health. A study of women with osteoporosis in Israel found that magnesium supplementation led to significantly increased bone mineral density compared to a control group.

The recommended daily dosage for optimal health is 320-420 mg. However, more than half of the US population eats less than 245 mg per day. Therefore, a magnesium supplementation dose of 250 milligrams per day is recommended to maintain bone health.

Dietary sources of magnesium include:
almonds,
cashews and
Peanuts. Other sources include
Raisin
Bran cereal

Potato skins
Brown rice
Kidney beans
Black-eyed peas
Lentils.
Eight ounces of milk have approximately 25 mg of magnesium.

The Link Between Magnesium and Bone Health

Magnesium plays an important role in bone metabolism by regulating calcium homeostasis, cell proliferation and differentiation, insulin signaling pathways, and vitamin D metabolism. Additionally, magnesium deficiency leads to increased parathyroid hormone secretion and higher circulating calcium levels.
All of these mechanisms underscore the importance of adequate magnesium intake for bone health. 

The Relationship Between Magnesium Intake and Osteoporosis Risk 

A recent meta-analysis including 11 prospective cohort studies found a significant inverse relationship between magnesium intake and osteoporosis risk.
In other words, higher magnesium intake was associated with a lower risk of developing osteoporosis. This association was most pronounced in postmenopausal women and those with a history of fracture. This meta-analysis provides convincing evidence that adequate magnesium intake is protective against osteoporosis development, particularly in high-risk groups.

Dosage and Side Effects

Magnesium supplements are generally well tolerated at doses up to 350 mg per day. The most common side effects are diarrhea and stomach upset. If you experience these side effects, simply reduce the dose or take the supplement with food. You should also talk to your doctor before taking magnesium supplements if you have kidney disease or are taking certain medications (e.g., diuretics, antibiotics, heart medications) as they could interact with magnesium.

Conclusion

Magnesium is an essential mineral for maintaining bone health. If you are at risk for developing osteoporosis or have already been diagnosed with the condition, consider increasing your magnesium intake through dietary sources or supplementation.
With simple lifestyle changes, you can protect your bones and reduce your risk of fractures.


https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19828898/
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/magnesium-HealthProfessional/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11269606/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12537987/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14974529/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6539869/