Magnesium Supplements

Q: I read that magnesium helps lower risk of heart disease. How much should I take?

A: Magnesium is a mineral that is needed in all the cells in the human body and plays an important role in the body’s ability to balance sugars and insulin. Studies of large groups of people have indicated that a deficiency in magnesium may play a role in the development of diabetes. High levels of magnesium in the diet may reduce your risk of developing metabolic syndrome and thus your risk of heart disease and diabetes. While more studies are needed to determine the needed levels of magnesium, whole grains, nuts, and many fruits and vegetables are good food sources of magnesium.

<strong>Jennifer H. Mieres, M.D.,</strong> is director of nuclear cardiology and associate professor of clinical medicine at New York University. She’s also a spokesperson for the American Heart Association.