Does magnesium supplementation help in the treatment of dementia?

From the Guidelines

Magnesium supplementation should not be offered as a treatment for dementia unless there is an indication of deficiency, as current evidence does not support its effectiveness in preventing or correcting cognitive decline in persons with dementia. The most recent and highest quality studies, such as those referenced in 1 and 1, suggest that micronutrient supplementation, including magnesium, has not been shown to have a cognitive benefit for persons with dementia. While magnesium plays a role in various neurological processes, including regulation of neurotransmitters and protection against excitotoxicity, the evidence for its use in treating established dementia is limited and inconclusive.

Some key points to consider include:

• The ESPEN guideline on nutrition in dementia, as referenced in 1 and 1, recommends against the systematic use of nutrient supplements, including magnesium, to prevent or correct cognitive decline in persons with dementia, unless there is a specific indication of deficiency.
• The guideline also emphasizes the importance of maintaining adequate nutrient levels through a balanced dietary pattern, rather than relying on supplements.
• Studies examining the effects of vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folic acid supplementation, as referenced in 1, have not shown significant benefits in preventing or correcting cognitive decline in patients with dementia, highlighting the need for a cautious approach to nutrient supplementation in this population.

Overall, while magnesium may have potential benefits for overall brain health, the current evidence does not support its use as a primary treatment for dementia, and patients should consult with their healthcare provider before considering supplementation, as it may interact with certain medications and cause side effects.

From the Research

Magnesium Supplementation in Dementia Treatment

• Magnesium (Mg) has been studied for its potential role in dementia treatment, with research suggesting it may facilitate learning and improve other symptoms 2.
• The use of Mg in conjunction with memantine, a drug that influences Mg, may serve to increase memantine's symptomatic and neuroprotective effects 2.
• A systematic review and meta-analysis found that Mg plays a key role in neurological functioning, but the evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohorts on Mg and cognitive health among adults is limited 3.
• The review found consistent U-shape associations of serum Mg with all-cause dementia and cognitive impairment, suggesting an optimal serum Mg concentration of ∼0.85 mmol/L 3.

Comparison with Other Nutrients

• Omega-3 fatty acids have also been studied for their potential role in dementia treatment, with some studies suggesting they may be beneficial in disease onset, but the evidence is inconsistent 4, 5, 6.
• A systematic review found no convincing evidence for the efficacy of omega-3 PUFA supplements in the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease 6.
• The review found that omega-3 PUFAs seemed to have low adverse effects, but the evidence was not sufficient to make a final statement on tolerability 6.

Key Findings

• Mg supplementation may be useful in dementia treatment, particularly when used in conjunction with memantine 2.
• The optimal serum Mg concentration for dementia treatment is around 0.85 mmol/L 3.
• More research is needed to fully understand the effects of Mg and omega-3 fatty acids on dementia treatment 3, 6.