Magnesium and Alzheimer's Disease: Implications for Diet and Nutrition

Environmental factors, including nutrition and metal elements, are implicated in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Several in vitro and in vivo data indicate a role for magnesium (Mg) in many biological and clinical aspects of AD. Mg deficiency, aside from having a negative impact on the energy production pathways required by the mitochondria to generate adenosine triphosphate, also affects many biochemical mechanisms vital for neuronal properties and synaptic plasticity, including the response of N-methyl- d-aspartate receptors to excitatory amino acids, stability, and viscosity of the cell membrane. Mg also has an action as a mild calcium antagonist, and as an antioxidant against free-radical damage of the mitochondria. Total and ionized Mg levels in plasma, as well as Mg concentrations in various tissues, were found to be decreased in AD patients and negatively associated with clinical deterioration. Chronic Mg deficiency results in excessive production of oxygen-deri...