Magnesium & blood pressure

Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients,  August-Sept, 2004  by Jule Klotter

• E-mail
• Print
• Link

Research has shown that blood pressure is linked to the calcium-activated potassium channels in the membranes of smooth muscle cells. When these microscopic ion channels open, the smooth muscles that control blood vessel diameter relax and blood pressure decreases. An article in Nature (22 August 2002) reveals that magnesium activates calcium-activated potassium channels in cell membranes, opening the channels. The research, led by Jianmin Cui at Case Western Reserve University, helps explain magnesium's beneficial effects on people with heart failure, stroke, and with high blood pressure.

Case Western Reserve University. Case Western Scientists Reveal How Magnesium Works on Ion Channels Important for Regulating Blood Pressure. 26 August 2002. www.sciencedaily.com

COPYRIGHT 2004 The Townsend Letter Group
COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group