Debra K. Brunk, PhD, CNS; Decker Weiss, ND, FASA; Dennis A. Goodman, MD, FACP, FACC, FCCP, ABIHM

Magnesium is necessary for optimal cardiovascular function; however, human studies have shown inconsistent effects of magnesium supplementation and blood pressure. Some research suggests that those with systolic blood pressure (SBP) > 155 mmHg are more likely to respond to magnesium supplementation. To test this hypothesis, we evaluated the impact of a dimagnesium malate combination product (500 mg dimagnesium malate, 5 mg vitamin B6, 6 mcg vitamin B12, and 200 mcg 5-MTH folate) on blood pressure over 90 days in 61 normal to Stage 1 hypertensive adults not taking anti-hypertensive medication.

Median SBP significantly decreased from 145 mmHg at baseline to 140 mmHg at 30 days for patients with SBP > 140 mmHg. This difference was also significant at 30 days compared to a placebo group with SBP greater than 140 mmHg. After 90 days of supplementation, median SBP decreased 16 mmHg from baseline for the hypertensive group. Decreases in diastolic blood pressure reached significance compared to baseline (-3 mmHg) after 90 days of supplementation. Both systolic and diastolic blood pressure reverted to baseline values 30 days after supplementation ended.

Magnesium supplementation over 90 days had no blood pressure effect on patients with SBP less than 140 mmHg.

Magnesium with B6, B12, and folate reduces blood pressure over 90 days in those with Stage 1 hypertension; those with SBP < 140 mmHg had no change in blood pressure. Magnesium coupled with B6, B12, and folate may be a prudent approach for reducing mild hypertension in as little as 30 days, perhaps minimizing the need for antihypertensive medications and their associated side effects.