Is Magnesium (Mg) glycinate safe to take in patients with elevated liver enzymes and hepatitis, or should it be discontinued?

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From the Research

Magnesium glycinate is generally considered safe for most people, including those with elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis, and typically does not need to be discontinued in these conditions. Magnesium glycinate is a form of magnesium that is bound to the amino acid glycine, which makes it gentler on the digestive system and more bioavailable than some other magnesium forms. Unlike some medications that are metabolized by the liver and can potentially worsen liver function, magnesium glycinate does not place significant stress on the liver. In fact, magnesium is an essential mineral that supports hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body, including those in the liver, as noted in a study on magnesium and liver disease 1.

Some key points to consider when taking magnesium glycinate with elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis include:

  • The typical dosage of magnesium glycinate ranges from 200-400 mg daily, but this can vary based on individual needs and existing magnesium levels.
  • If you have severe liver disease or kidney disease, you should consult with your healthcare provider before taking any supplement, as magnesium levels may need to be monitored.
  • Magnesium supplementation can improve liver function in certain liver diseases, as seen in a study on the effect of magnesium supplementation and weight loss on liver enzymes in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease 2.
  • A study on the amelioration of ethanol-induced hepatitis by magnesium isoglycyrrhizinate through inhibition of neutrophil cell infiltration and oxidative damage also highlights the potential benefits of magnesium supplementation in liver health 3.

It's essential to note that while magnesium glycinate is generally considered safe, it's crucial to monitor your body's response and adjust your dosage or consult your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual symptoms, such as severe diarrhea or abdominal pain. Additionally, a recent study on the approach to elevated liver enzymes emphasizes the importance of evaluating liver function based on clinical presentation and the pattern of injury 4.

References

Research

Magnesium and liver disease.

Annals of translational medicine, 2019

Research

The effect of magnesium supplementation and weight loss on liver enzymes in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Journal of research in medical sciences : the official journal of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, 2013

Research

Approach to Elevated Liver Enzymes.

Primary care, 2023

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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