Magnesium and Malate Acid

Magnesium, the fourth most abundant mineral in the human body, plays a role in over 300 metabolic processes. It participates in the development and maintenance of bones and teeth; the metabolism of carbohydrates, blood glucose, fats, and proteins; the formation of cells and tissues; and the maintenance of muscle function, including cardiac muscle. Magnesium also helps to lower blood pressure and allows more oxygen to be delivered to the brain and heart.

Deficiency is common and results from poor dietary intake, poor absorption, and excessive losses through urine, stool, perspiration, or lactation. Certain drugs, certain herbs, poor kidney function, excessive alcohol intake, and drinking mostly “soft” water can contribute to magnesium depletion as well [1]. Magnesium’s role in modulating the inflammation marker c-reactive protein (CRP) and supporting the body’s normal response to inflammation may be significant. In addition, although underlying mechanisms remain unclear, it appears that men who consume diets rich in magnesium can maintain healthy gallbladder function [2]. Adequate magnesium intake indeed has strong, far-reaching health benefits [3].

This formula contains Albion®’s TRAACS® magnesium lysinate glycinate and Albion’s chelated di-magnesium malate—both formulated for enhanced absorption. Magnesium Lysinate Glycinate Chelate, a mineral amino acid chelate in which magnesium is bound to two amino acids, creates a complex that is more readily absorbed across the intestinal wall. Malic acid (from di-magnesium malate) supports energy production and lactic acid clearance via the Krebs cycle. Malic acid may also support antioxidant systems by enhancing glutathione and antioxidant enzymes. Malic acid also appears to exert a protective effect by binding aluminum [4].

References

1. Magnesium Balance: Can You Juggle? Albion Human Nutrition Research Notes. 2006 Dec;15(4). http://www.albionhumannutrition.com/research-notes/ download/doc_details/328-magnesium-balance-can-you-juggle. Accessed May 29, 2012.
2. Tsai CJ, Leitzmann MF, Willett WC, et al. Long-term effect of magnesium consumption on the risk of symptomatic gallstone disease among men. Am J Gastroenterol. 2008 Feb;103(2):375-82. [PMID: 18076730]
3. Laires MJ, Monteiro CP, Bicho M. Role of cellular magnesium in health and human disease. Front Biosci. 2004 Jan 1;9:262-76. [PMID: 14766364]
4. Suzuki T, Tamura S, Nakanishi H, et al. Reduction of aluminum toxicity by 2-isopropylmalic acid in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2007 Winter;120(1-3):257-63. [PMID: 17916978]