The Role of Magnesium in Depression, Migraine, Alzheimer's Disease, and Cognitive Health: A Comprehensive Review
Abstract
Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in hundreds of biochemical reactions, with particular relevance to maintaining neural homeostasis, modulating neurotransmitter systems, and regulating inflammatory and oxidative stress mechanisms. This comprehensive review aims to evaluate the potential role of magnesium in the pathophysiology and treatment of three prevalent neurological and psychiatric disorders-depression, migraine, and Alzheimer's disease-as well as its broader implications for cognitive health. Current research suggests that magnesium deficiency is associated with the development of depression, as magnesium influences glutamatergic and GABAergic neurotransmission, as well as the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, both of which play critical roles in stress responses and mood regulation. Additionally, magnesium's anti-inflammatory properties may contribute to the alleviation of depressive symptoms. In the context of migraine's pathophysiology, magnesium plays a role in regulating cerebral vascular tone, modulating the trigeminovascular system, and reducing neuronal hyperexcitability, which may explain the observed correlation between magnesium levels and the incidence of migraines. Regarding Alzheimer's disease, preclinical and epidemiological studies suggest that magnesium may contribute to modulating neurodegenerative processes and preserving cognitive function; however, due to the heterogeneity of the current findings, further…
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