Is Magnesium useful for longevity?

Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in hundreds of enzymatic reactions, including DNA repair, mitochondrial function, and inflammation regulation – all processes linked to aging. Observational studies associate low magnesium levels with increased mortality and chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. However, randomized controlled trials directly proving that magnesium supplementation extends lifespan are lacking. The evidence is therefore primarily mechanistic and observational. Adequate magnesium intake through diet (e.g., nuts, seeds, whole grains, leafy greens) is important for overall health, but supplementing beyond requirements is not established as an anti-aging intervention. In kidney disease or with certain medications, high magnesium doses can even be risky. Bottom line: Magnesium is a key nutrient for healthy aging, but not a proven longevity elixir. The recommendation remains to meet needs through food first.